The municipal council of Lumbaca Unayan in Lanao del Sur province has made a historic declaration, officially proclaiming the town free from the influence of terrorist organizations Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group and the New People's Army.
Official Declaration Through Council Resolutions
On Thursday, November 20, 2025, the municipal council passed Resolutions 16 and 17, formally declaring Lumbaca Unayan liberated from the grip of armed extremist groups. Lieutenant Colonel Jerry Gaviola, commander of the 64th Infantry Battalion, confirmed the significance of this legislative action.
The declaration represents the community's collective stance against terrorism and local armed groups, according to military officials. The resolutions symbolize a unified front against violent extremism that has long plagued the region.
Community Celebration and Task Force Launch
A united peace rally took place at the municipal hall in Barangay Oriental Beta, drawing residents from across the municipality. The event also marked the establishment of the Municipal Task Force-Ending Local Armed Conflict (MT-ELAC), a strategic initiative designed to sustain peace and prevent the resurgence of violent extremist groups.
The MT-ELAC serves as the local counterpart to the national government's National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac). The celebration featured several activities demonstrating public support for the peace initiative:
- A peace motorcade traversing key areas of the municipality
- A walk rally showing community solidarity
- The symbolic burning of an ISIS flag
These activities powerfully demonstrated the people's firm rejection of violent extremism that has caused numerous civilian casualties and widespread fear in affected communities.
Strategic Timing Following Security Success
The declaration comes at a pivotal moment following successful security operations in Pagayawan, Lanao del Sur, on November 15. These operations resulted in the death of DI-MG leader Najib Laguindab, also known as Abu Jihad.
Abu Jihad was involved in the December 3, 2023 bombing at Mindanao State University that killed four people and injured 50 others. The bombing occurred around 7:30 a.m. during a mass at the Dimaporo Gymnasium of MSU in Marawi City.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Gaviola, the elimination of Abu Jihad has significantly weakened extremist influence throughout Lanao del Sur province. This development has reinforced the importance of community-driven peace initiatives like the one in Lumbaca Unayan.
Gaviola emphasized the historical significance of the declaration, stating: "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 added: "Your courage to stand against extremism is the true foundation of lasting peace."
Sustaining Peace Through Collaboration
With the establishment of MT-ELAC, the Municipal Government, military, and police have committed to sustaining peace programs through enhanced coordination and development efforts. This collaborative approach aims to ensure Lumbaca Unayan remains resilient against radicalization and violent extremism.
The united stand of the community represents a significant stride toward a safer, more peaceful Lanao del Sur, driven by cooperation, vigilance, and hope. The successful declaration in Lumbaca Unayan serves as a model for other municipalities grappling with similar security challenges.
The comprehensive approach combining security operations with community engagement and local governance initiatives demonstrates an effective strategy for countering extremist influence in the region.
