Abdulghani "Gerry" A. Salapuddin is a Filipino politician and former three-term congressman (1998–2007). He also served as governor of Basilan (1988–98) and was at least partly responsible for much of the progress made in Basilan in the 1990s.
Background Salapuddin was born in 1952 in Tuburan, Basilan. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in political science from the Basilan State College, and returned for graduate studies. He became a guerrilla with the Moro National Liberation Front and fought for 14 years. In 1983, he resigned his position as a provincial commander in the MNLF to run for political office.Odd winners in Philippine elections. United Press International, January 30, 1988.
Political activity In 1988 Salapuddin ran for and won the governor seat in Basilan by 1,552 votes over Louise Alano, a former acting governor appointed by former President Aquino.One Killed in Postponed Elections in Five Regions. The Associated Press, January 25, 1988. Under Salapuddin, Basilan experienced a period of relative prosperity including new trade missions, infrastructure improvement, development aid, business assistance and help for the poor. Salapuddin frequently acted as negotiator when civilians were taken hostage by rebel groups, using his contacts and political wiles.Rebels Release Seven Captives In Philippines. The Associated Press, September 4, 1988. He also served as acting chairman of the MNLF in Basilan and as president of the Young Muslim Professional Association.
In 1993, President Fidel Ramos suspended Salapuddin for 60 days on charges of "serious misconduct, oppression, gross negligence, abuse of authority, dereliction of duty and maladministration," one of many powerful politicians targeted in what was considered a crackdown on corruption and nepotism.Life and crimes of Philippines local rulers spur outrage. The Age (Melbourne, Australia), September 6, 1993.
In 1998, Salapuddin sought the post of congressman for Basilan's lone district and won, proceeding to serve in three successive terms and two terms as deputy speaker for Mindanao in the House of Representatives. In 2007, he ran again for mayor but lost to the wife of Wahab Akbar, Jum Jainudin. Following Akbar's death by assassination in Quezon City the same year, he requested increased security after his former driver was accused as one of the suspects.Slain legislator's rival seeks tight security. BusinessWorld, November 19, 2007. He was initially cleared of any involvement, but was later the target of an arrest warrant.Police file criminal charges vs suspected Batasan bombers. BusinessWorld, November 20, 2007.Ex-solon on arrest order list for Batasan bombing. BusinessWorld, April 29, 2008.
Salapuddin has somewhat faded from prominence since the 2007 elections, when he failed to be elected governor and his power bloc likewise fared poorly.
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