ISABELA CITY, BASILAN โ Once branded as a hotspot of violence, Basilan is now planting the seeds of transformationโthis time, as Mindanaoโs emerging agri-industrial hub.
From coconut and rubber plantations to thriving fisheries and potential halal tourism, the island province is undergoing a quiet revolution powered by peace, policy reforms, and people-centered development.
โWe are done with conflict. Itโs time for inclusive progress,โ Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman said, as the province ramps up investments in agricultural modernization and infrastructure.
From battlefield to breadbasket
Basilanโs new trajectory comes on the back of a crucial milestone: the official clearing of Abu Sayyaf presence. For local leaders, this was the turning point.
Private investors are now showing interest, including the Kenram Group, which is eyeing a large-scale oil palm plantation and milling operation in the province.
โSecurity was always the deal-breaker. Now, investors are knocking,โ said a provincial economic planner.
Public works, public good
Complementing the agriculture push is a surge in infrastructure development.
The Bangsamoro Ministry of Public Works has completed 27 projects across the provinceโfarm-to-market roads, flood controls, wharves, and drainage systemsโpaving the way for easier transport and safer communities.
These upgrades span across key towns like Sumisip, Maluso, Lantawan, Hadji Muhtamad, and Lamitan.
Empowering the grassroots
But the heart of Basilanโs shift lies in its people.
Local farmers and fisherfolkโmany of whom are former combatantsโare receiving technical training, cooperative development assistance, and access to better tools and markets. They received help from international partners such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Trade Centre
Rubber tappers now undergo quality control training. Fisherfolk are learning food safety protocols and receiving motorized boats. Rice and coconut farmers are given pest control support and post-harvest equipment.
โThis isnโt just agricultureโitโs healing and rebuilding through livelihood,โ said one community organizer in Tipo-Tipo.
Halal tourism and the ASEAN market
Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman is also betting on halal tourism to expand Basilanโs economic base.
โOur people are ready. We want to offer halal products, safe spaces, and authentic Muslim hospitalityโnot just for tourists, but for regional trade,โ Hataman said, pointing to ASEAN as a promising halal market.
Challenges remain
Despite momentum, challenges persist: logistics bottlenecks, climate vulnerability, and lingering stigma from the past. But for many Basilenos, the path forward is clear.
โWeโre not just trying to survive anymore,โ said Gov. Hataman. โWeโre building something lasting. Something ours.โ
Basilan is beginning to blossomโnot just in crops, but in confidence with its firm footing in peace, and strong agricultural roots.
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