To strengthen unity and friendship between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and security sector of the national government, the Senior Expert at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) in partnership with the Strategic Communications and Capacity Building (SCCB) Project in the Philippines launches Kambollayoka in Lamitan City, Basilan on February 22, 2024. (Marhom Ibrahim/BIO)
LAMITAN CITY—The peace basketball initiative known as “Kambollayoka” between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the security sector of the national government has reached Basilan for the first time on February 22, at the Lamitan City Hall Gymnasium.
“Kambollayoka” derives from the Meranaw and Maguindanaon languages, with ‘kambolla’ referring to playing any ball games, whether basketball or volleyball, while ‘bollayoka’ signifies building friendship.
The activity’s objective is to foster camaraderie among the MILF, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) through the sport of basketball.
Dr. Haroro Ingram, Senior Expert at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), highlighted the program’s focus on leveraging the joint peace and ceasefire mechanism to bolster the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement of Bangsamoro (CAB), particularly in strengthening relations between the MILF and the security sector.
This initiative is also in partnership with the Strategic Communications and Capacity Building (SCCB) Project in the Philippines.
Accordingly, the inception of the basketball series in Basilan stemmed from a casual conversation between him and BGen Alvin Luzon of Philippine Army (PA) last year, discussing ways to support peace efforts in the province.
“We aim to collaborate closely with all our partners here to extend the basketball series throughout Basilan. Our support extends beyond basketball; it encompasses broader programs such as command and coordination meetings, which we look forward to hosting here with relevant stakeholders,” said Ingram.
He emphasized the ongoing effort required for peace, stating, “Peace demands sustained and vigilant efforts. It’s a gradual process that involves every individual and every community. We are here to support and partner every step of the way.”
Ingram encouraged the players to cherish the game, forge bonds with their teammates on and off the court, and extend the spirit of friendship beyond the game itself.
Captain Peralta, a player from the PA, expressed joy over witnessing the convergence of peace and development, where former adversaries now stand united, showcasing teamwork and unity.
“We feel happy because we see peace and development. The former competitors are now together, we see teamwork and unity,” Peralta said.
He also emphasized the importance of starting with small gestures, as they lay the foundation for larger achievements, such as peace.
Kipli Abubakar, representing the MILF players, noted the noticeable increase in peace within their community over the past six years. He advocated for continued engagement with the security sector to strengthen trust, friendship, and teamwork.
“For me today, our place is more peaceful compared to the past six years. The skirmishes between AFP and MILF had lessened drastically. We are freely roaming around without any fear,” he said.
“We recommend to continue playing with the security sector to strengthen our trust, friendship, and teamwork,” he shared.
BGEN Alvin Luzon PA, Commander of 101 Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army, expressed gratitude for the gathering of MILF partners, AFP, and PNP in pursuit of peace.
He acknowledged the generous support from Ingram and emphasized the significance of activities like these in promoting collaboration, friendship, and unity, ultimately contributing to enhanced security and sustained peace.
Various officials graced the ceremonial launch, including PCOL Carlos Madronio of the Basilan Police Office, Manny Muarip representing the Governor’s office, Joey Leonardo representing Mayor Oric Furigay, Malik Caril, Aliah Adam, and Haj Sam Attain from different organizations.
This initiative aligns with BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim’s 11th priority agenda in furthering efforts towards sustaining peace across the region. (Majid Nur/BIO)
