BASILAN PROVINCE–Congressman Mujiv Hataman was officially proclaimed as the newly elected Governor of Basilan during a formal ceremony held on May 14, 2025, at the Basilan Provincial Capitol. The proclamation came after a brief delay in the canvassing of results due to late transmission of votes from one municipality.
This has been one of the most historic and thrilling local elections held in Basilan. The people have spoken—Mujiv Hataman is their choice.
Based on official election results from the two cities and 11 municipalities of Basilan, Hataman garnered a total of 121,829 votes, securing victory over his closest rival, Atty. Jay Hataman Salliman, who received 118,554 votes—a winning margin of 3,275 votes.
Hataman’s political opponent, Atty. Jay Salliman, is his nephew, the son of incumbent Governor Jim Salliman who has also secured the position of Vice Governor of Basilan—marking a closely watched electoral race between members of one of Basilan’s most prominent political families.
Also proclaimed were members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, which includes re-electionist Amin Hataman (49,987 votes), along with newly elected Board Member Atty. Faigdar Jaafar (47,836), both from Team Adil and Basilan Unity Party (BUP).
The proclamation ceremony was officiated by the Provincial Board of Canvassers and attended by COMELEC officials, government officials, local and national media, and a large crowd of supporters, family members, and residents.
Among those present was Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, who stood in solidarity with her husband as he begins a new chapter of public service in the province.
Governor-elect Mujiv Hataman expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by the people of Basilan and reaffirmed his commitment to peace, inclusive development, and transparent governance:
“Sa ngalan ng pag-asa at paninindigan, tinatanggap ko ang hamon at responsibilidad na isulong ang tunay na pagbabago sa ating mahal na lalawigan. Taos-puso ang pasasalamat ko sa lahat ng nagtiwala at tumindig para sa Team Adil at Basilan Unity Party.Hindi ito tagumpay ng isa: ito ay tagumpay nating lahat! Hiling namin ay samahan nyo pa rin kami sa laban para sa pag-unlad at kasaganahan ng bawat pamilyang Basileño!”
Governor-elect Mujiv Hataman’s entry to the provincial capitol marks a new chapter for Basilan’s governance. Known for his strong stance on good governance, inclusive leadership, and peace-building, Hataman is expected to bring his experience as a former ARMM Regional Governor and Basilan Representative into his new role as the province’s top executive.
The newly elected provincial officials will officially assume office on June 30, 2025, bringing with them a renewed mandate to lead Basilan towards a future anchored on unity, development, and genuine public service.
