ZAMBOANGA CITY — Around 370 former members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) gathered in Basilan as part of the provincial government’s ongoing peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts.

The event, “Usap Tayo, Gob,” was held Wednesday at the Basilan Government Center in Barangay Sta. Clara, Lamitan City. Governor Mujiv S. Hataman led the dialogue, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the reintegration of Former Violent Extremists (FVEs).

Brigadier General Frederick M. Sales, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, highlighted the significance of the gathering, which followed a recent memorandum of agreement (MoA) between the Basilan Provincial Government and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity. The MoA focuses on localizing normalization efforts and preventing violent extremism.

Sales urged the former combatants to continue their transformation for a peaceful and prosperous Basilan. Dr. Abdulkhair Tarazon, chairman of the Ulama Supreme Council, underscored the dangers of violence in Islam and stressed the need for unity.

Governor Hataman assured the FVEs of ongoing government support, while Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia “Dadah” Turabin-Hataman and other local officials also attended.

At the event’s close, each returnee received 25 kilos of rice and P1,000 as a token of gratitude and a symbol of new beginnings.