“A dream does not become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work.”~ Colin Powell
Tumahubong, Sumisip Basilan- Commander of Western Mindanao Command visited Sampinit Complex last September 14, 2020.
Sampinit Complex was considered as one of the most dangerous areas in the municipality of Sumisip where most kidnapped victims of the notorious Abu Sayaff Group were killed and beheaded. It was successfully penetrated by government forces through the active involvement of the local government units and populace of Basilan.
The on-going construction of the Basilan Transcentral Road from Sumisip to Isabela via Sampinit Complex showcases how safe now are the hinterlands of the province that were former strongholds of the ASG and other terrorist groups.
The visit’s purpose is to check the 200-hectare lot to be donated by the local government to the AFP which will be converted into military reservation.
MGEN. CORLETO S. VINLUAN JR., PA was accompanied by Gov. Jim S. Hataman-Salliman, Cong. Mujiv Hataman, Sumisip Mayor Jul-Adnan P. Hataman, Maluso Mayor Hanie Bud, other local government officials, COL DOMINGO B GOBWAY INF (GSC) PA, Commander, JTF-Basilan, and LTC. RENANTE D. BESA, INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 64th Infantry (Knights) Battalion.
Gov. Hataman said that the purpose of the donation and conversion into a military reservation is to make sure that the area will be protected and to prevent any terrorist and lawless groups from the area and be declared as a “Zone of Peace”.
He also expressed his gratitude to Basilan Provincial Police, 101st Infantry Brigade and 64th Infantry Battalion for supporting the construction of the more than 30-kilometer transcentral road.
The party also dropped around Mahatallang Round Ball. It is the new highway from Mahatallang area to the adjoining Punoh Lumot and Punoh Timogen at the Sampinit Complex.
According to MGEN VINLUAN JR, he was personally elated seeing the fruits of the soldiers’ hard work and dedication with the wholehearted support and cooperation of the Local Government of Basilan Province.
“Their indefatigable service led to the restoration of this sanctuary. Rest assured that we will continue their legacy by eliminating hostility and bringing about the normalcy in the area,” he added.
Moreover, he ought to thank the leaders who embarked on this road project and all police and military personnel helping secure it and the local sectors supporting its implementation.
(Source: 64th Infantry Knights Battalion)