Extremist groups declared persona non grata in Lanao del Norte

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur —Two major base commands of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have formally declared extremist and lawless groups unwelcome in their areas of influence, a united stand against terrorism and criminality in the province.

Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division spokesperson Maj. Noelio Brigole disclosed that the 127th Base Command, led by Aleem Ansary Murad, issued its declaration during a ceremony at its headquarters in Munai last May 23. A month later, on June 23, the 123rd Base Command under Hadji Nor Dipatuan followed suit at its headquarters in Tagoloan.

Both events branded the Dawlah Islamiyah–Maute Group (DI-MG), the Communist Terrorist Group’s Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC-5), and other lawless elements as persona non grata.

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The twin declarations, facilitated by the 44th Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Jeremy Damonsong and 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade through Col. Bernardo Taqueban, were conducted in close coordination with MILF leaders, local government units, peace mechanisms, and community stakeholders.

Each ceremony culminated in the signing of resolutions and a Pledge of Commitment to Peace, symbolizing collective resolve to safeguard communities and sustain development, Brigole said.

Gathered at the events were MILF leaders, local chief executives, representatives from peace mechanisms, community leaders, and members of the Philippine National Police, reflecting broad-based support for peacebuilding initiatives. Their presence highlighted the enduring partnership among the MILF, law enforcement agencies, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines in protecting the gains of the peace process.

By collectively rejecting the presence and influence of violent extremist groups, the people and leaders of Lanao del Norte have sent a clear and powerful message: peace, stability, and progress will prevail over fear, violence, and division.

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The initiative further reinforces the shared commitment of all stakeholders to foster a secure environment where communities can thrive and future generations can prosper, the military spokesperson said./coa

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