ISABELA CITY, Basilan (PIA) –The City Mayor Roderick Furigay of Lamitan City, Basilan officially declared the city as Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)-Free in his State of the City Report recently.
Furigay said the declaration was made possible through the collaborative efforts of local government units, security forces, and the community.
Brigadier General Alamin Luzon, commander of the 101st Infantry “Three Red Arrows” Brigade of the Philippine Army in his message, highlighted the importance of this milestone and emphasized the commitment of all parties involved in achieving lasting peace and development.
“We commit that we will continue to be vigilant and to be your partners in securing Basilan and in fostering further development not only in Lamitan City, but in the entire Basilan. This is our commitment and support in the declaration of Lamitan City as ASG FREE,” he said.
The declaration was followed by the presentation of 46 loose firearms, including high-powered and low-powered firearms, as well as a hand grenade which voluntarily surrendered by barangay chairpersons from various barangays of Lamitan City.
Basilan Governor Jim Hataman-Salliman, in his message emphasized that it is not only a celebration of the absence of threat, but also embracing a promising future for Lamitan City.
“Our collective efforts have proven that peace can be achieved and together, we will build a future filled with opportunity and prosperity,” he expressed.
Mayor Furigay emphasized that Lamitan City is on a path of growth and prosperity. He expressed pride on the achievements they have made together as a community in Lamitan City and look forward to more and better opportunities.
“Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for all Lamiteños,” he stressed.
The event concluded with the signing of a commitment to uphold the ASG-free status of Lamitan City, marking a collective pledge to safeguard the hard-earned peace. The declaration is expected to pave the way for further development and progress in the city. (EDT/NDR/MGA-PIA Basilan)
