Basilan declared ASG-free after remaining members surrender

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 27, 2024): Basilan declared ASG-free after remaining members surrender (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Basilan Island province.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Basilan province has been declared free of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) following the surrender of the group’s last eight members, a top military official said Friday.

Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon, commander of the Basilan-based 101st Infantry Brigade, announced that the final ASG members surrendered Thursday in Barangay Guiong, Sumisip.

The surrenderers were group leader Tawakkal Bayali, Abu Bayali, Julhari Bayali, Hasib Tualaran, Yusup Bayali, Marjan Bayali, Makrin Bayali and Apong Upaman.

“They surrendered and returned to the fold of the law and mainstream society because they want to live normal lives with their families,” Luzon said in a statement.

The group also turned over five high-powered firearms, including an M2-3 grenade launcher, three M16 rifles, a caliber .30 Carbine rifle, and assorted ammunition.

Luzon described the surrender of the Tawakkal Bayali-led group as the “best Christmas gift” to the people of Basilan, marking a major milestone toward lasting peace and progress in the province.

The surrender was made possible through the combined efforts of the military, Sumisip municipal government and leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Basilan.

Sumisip Mayor Jul-Adnan Hataman said the surrender is essential for the town’s goal of achieving lasting peace and opening up opportunities for continuous progress and sustainable development.

The former ASG members are currently under the custody of the Sumisip municipal government and will undergo a social integration program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1240649