The Sulu Provincial Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict
(PTF-ELAC) declared the province as an Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)-Free
during the 3rd Quarter 2023 Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC)
Meeting held at Sumadja Hall, SACC Building, Barangay Bangkal,
Patikul, Sulu on September 6, 2023.
Sulu Governor Abdusakur M. Tan narrated in his message that it was his
greatest pleasure to declare his province Free from the insurgency of
the Muslim rebels.
“It is my great pleasure and immense pride to declare the Province of
Sulu as ASG-Free. This event marks a significant accomplishment in our
never-ending quest for stability, security, and peace. With the
support of our security sector and the community, we can see the
improvement in our province. This is the indicator that there is
harmony, so we came up with the agreement that the Sulu will be
declared ASG-free.” Gov. Abdusakur Tan said.
“Let us keep cooperating to create a community that respects harmony,
diversity, and development,” he added.
Prior to the declaration of the province of Sulu as ASG-Free, the 19
municipalities of the province declared their respective towns as
ASG-Free.
Meanwhile, Major General Ignatius Patrimonio, the Commander of the
Joint Task Force Sulu said that prior to the event, they were able to
clear 52 barangays from ASG and recovered 559 firearms from the said
former rebel campsites.
“Prior to this momentous event, we were able to clear from ASG
affectation the 52 ASG-affected barangays which attributed to the
voluntary surrender of 966 ASG personalities and recovery of 559
firearms.” MGen. Patrimonio said.
“This declaration is a significant milestone as it marked the
collective victory of the local government units together with various
sectors that work together towards attaining peace and security in
Sulu. This will bring forth development and will boost the eco-tourism
of the province,” he added.
MGen. Patrimonio concluded; “Let us continue to work together to
sustain our gains toward our common vision of lasting peace and
sustainable development in the province of Sulu.”
The event was witnessed by the 19 Municipal Mayors of Sulu province,
Police Colonel Narciso Paragas, the Provincial Director of Sulu Police
Provincial Office, Brigade and Battalion Commanders, and JTF Sulu
staff.