SUMISIP, Basilan – Basilan People's Governor Mujiv Hataman on Wednesday underscored the importance of linking peace initiatives with sustainable economic opportunities as he joined the turnover of the Farms for Peace Poultry Farm Project to returnee beneficiaries in Barangay Baiwas, Sumisip.
The project, implemented by JCI Manila through its Farms for Peace Program, aims to provide former combatants and conflict-affected families with a stable source of livelihood while strengthening peacebuilding and community development efforts in the province.
Governor Hataman led provincial officials in supporting the initiative alongside Sumisip Mayor Julz Hataman, JCI Manila President Edison Ke, Lamitan City Vice Mayor Hegem Furigay, 32nd Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Gerwin T. Maghuyop, community leaders, and project beneficiaries.
In his message, Governor Hataman thanked JCI Manila and its partners for bringing development programs to Basilan and investing in communities striving to build a better future.
“We thank all the organizations and groups willing to come to Basilan and extend assistance to our people, especially through programs that provide opportunities for beneficiaries who are rebuilding their lives and seeking a better future for their families,” Governor Hataman said.
The governor stressed that livelihood programs are essential in ensuring that peace gains are translated into tangible benefits for communities.
While expressing optimism about the project's potential, Hataman also emphasized the need to address challenges that may affect its long-term success.
“One of the biggest challenges will be marketing. Another challenge is sustaining both the peace component and the economic component of this project. But if we work together, this initiative can become a strong model of how peace and development can move forward together,” he added.
Meanwhile, Sumisip Mayor Julz Hataman described the poultry farm project as a transformative opportunity for returnee beneficiaries.
“Projects like this are a tremendous help to our returnee beneficiaries. Before, many of them would wake up carrying arms; now, because of the Farms for Peace Project, they wake up tending chickens and building a livelihood. This initiative gives them a chance to support their families, live peacefully, and become productive members of society,” Mayor Hataman said.
For his part, Lt. Col. Gerwin Maghuyop highlighted the importance of providing meaningful opportunities for peace advocates and former combatants.
“Faith in peace. Peace advocates must have meaningful lives. We must continue to nurture and expand projects like this so more families can benefit and become partners in sustaining peace,” Maghuyop said.
Meanwhile, JCI Manila President Edison Ke called on beneficiaries to protect and sustain the project.
“We must remain united. Let us take care of this chicken farm and make sure it is sustained. We hope this project will become a model that can be replicated in other communities,” Ke said.
The Farms for Peace Poultry Farm Project is expected to generate livelihood opportunities, strengthen food security, and support the continued reintegration of returnees into productive community life.
Organizers expressed hope that the initiative will serve as a model for future peace and development programs in Basilan, demonstrating how collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, the military, and the private sector can create lasting change.
The turnover ceremony concluded with the formal ribbon-cutting and blessing of the facility, symbolizing a new chapter of hope, livelihood, and peace for the beneficiaries of Barangay Baiwas and neighboring communities. [Richard Gregorio Falcatan]
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