In a significant step toward strengthening regional stability, the Philippine Army's 101st "Three Red Arrows" Infantry Brigade engaged in crucial peace talks with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leaders in Lanao del Sur.
High-Level Security Dialogue
The meeting took place on Tuesday, November 25, at the brigade headquarters located in Barangay Matalin, Malabang, Lanao del Sur. Leading the military delegation was Brigadier General Yasser Bara, while the MILF contingent was headed by Front Commander and Member of Parliament Basit Abbas Jannati.
Also participating in the important discussions were key figures from peace monitoring mechanisms: Maclary Macadatu representing the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and Ayobkhan Usman, coordinator for the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG). Several MILF base commanders joined the dialogue, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the engagement.
Strengthening Peace Mechanisms
The primary focus of the discussions centered on enhancing continuous collaboration to improve the security landscape across Lanao del Sur. Both military and MILF representatives reaffirmed their strong commitment to maintaining peace and stability throughout the region.
Brigadier General Yasser Bara emphasized the collective nature of peacebuilding efforts, stating: "Peace is not achieved by one side alone. It requires shared responsibility, trust, and continuous dialogue. Today's meeting reaffirms our collective commitment to safeguard our communities and ensure stability in Lanao del Sur."
The military leader further highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting that the strengthened coordination between the 101st Brigade and MILF leadership demonstrates their dedication to achieving lasting peace in the Bangsamoro region.
Mutual Commitment to Regional Stability
MP Basit Abbas Jannati echoed the military's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of sustained cooperation. "We stand with our partners in the Armed Forces in ensuring that peace is sustained in our communities," Jannati stated. "Through dialogue and cooperation, we can overcome challenges and build a future where our people live in safety and dignity."
The MILF leader further elaborated on the shared vision driving their continued engagement with the 101st Brigade, highlighting their joint commitment to upholding principles of peace and mutual respect throughout the Bangsamoro region.
The successful dialogue resulted in several key outcomes that promise to enhance regional security coordination. Both parties agreed to strengthen their partnership and reinforce existing coordination mechanisms through CCCH and AHJAG representatives. The concept of shared responsibility in maintaining peace and security was prominently emphasized as a guiding principle for future collaborations.
This meeting represents the ongoing dedication of both military and MILF leadership to foster unity, cooperation, and sustainable peace in the Bangsamoro region. The continued engagement between these key stakeholders signals positive progress in the region's peace process and demonstrates a mutual commitment to addressing local security challenges through dialogue rather than confrontation.
