Manila: The municipal council of Lumbaca Unayan in Lanao del Sur has officially declared the area free from the influence of the terror Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG) remnants and the communist New People's Army (NPA), as announced by the military.
According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Col. Jerry Gaviola, commander of the Philippine Army's 64th Infantry Battalion, stated that the declaration was made through Municipal Council Resolutions 16 and 17, both passed on the same day. Gaviola emphasized that the declaration represents the community's unified stance against terrorism and local armed groups. "Today marks a turning point for our municipality. By standing together, we send a powerful message that we will never allow fear, violence, or extremism to rule our community again," he said in a statement.
The community celebrated the declaration with a peace rally at Barangay Oriental Beta's municipal hall, marking the establishment of the Municipal Task Force - Ending Local Armed Conflict (MT-ELAC). This task force aims to maintain peace and prevent the resurgence of violent extremism. The event featured a peace motorcade, a walk rally, and the burning of the ISIS flag, all symbolizing the people's firm rejection of violent extremism.
The DI-MG has been responsible for numerous civilian casualties, instilling fear and causing disruption in affected communities, which underscores the significance of the day's declaration. "Your courage to stand against extremism is the true foundation of lasting peace," Gaviola remarked.
He pointed out that the declaration is particularly timely following successful security operations in Pagayawan, Lanao del Sur, on November 15, which resulted in the death of DI-MG leader Najib Laguindab, also known as Abu Jihad. Brig. Gen. Yasser Bara, commander of the Army's 1101st Infantry Brigade, had previously mentioned that Laguindab was involved in the December 3, 2023 bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City. The bombing, which occurred during a mass at MSU's Dimaporo Gymnasium, killed four people and injured 50 others.
Gaviola noted that the death of Laguindab weakened extremist influence in the province and underscored the importance of community-driven peace initiatives.
