MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Reintegration does not end when a former rebel lays down arms. For many, the more difficult journey begins afterward—finding stable livelihoods, rebuilding trust, and starting over in communities shaped by years of armed conflict.
That journey took another step forward as 39 former rebels received ₱2.586 million in government assistance under the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) during the program’s second batch of assistance released on June 4 at the Headquarters of the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office (BPPO).
The assistance package included Immediate Assistance, Livelihood Assistance, and Reintegration Assistance designed to help beneficiaries establish sustainable sources of income and ease their transition back into civilian life. The Provincial Government of Bukidnon also distributed food packs to further support the beneficiaries and their families.
Before receiving the assistance, participants attended an orientation conducted by the Provincial Agriculture Office on aquaculture livelihood opportunities. The session introduced practical income-generating options that beneficiaries may pursue as they rebuild their lives in their respective communities.
While financial assistance provides an important starting point, peace practitioners increasingly recognize that successful reintegration depends on more than economic support alone. Stable livelihoods, access to government services, community acceptance, and continued mentoring all play essential roles in reducing the conditions that could leave former combatants vulnerable to returning to armed conflict.
Bukidnon Police Provincial Office Director PCOL Oliver S. Navales welcomed the beneficiaries and underscored the importance of reintegration programs in helping former rebels become productive members of their communities. Representing Governor Rogelio Neil P. Roque, Atty. Lisha Villacanas reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting former rebels as they rebuild their lives and contribute to local development.
One of the program’s defining moments was the administration of the Panunumpa sa Pakig-ugong by Brig. Gen. Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade. More than a ceremonial oath, it symbolized the beneficiaries’ renewed commitment to pursue peaceful lives and actively participate in community development.
Among the recipients were 26 former rebels whose reintegration was facilitated by the 89th Infantry (MAKATAO) Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Antonio G. Bulao I. The battalion continues to assist former rebels in accessing government services, coordinating with partner agencies, and connecting beneficiaries with opportunities available through E-CLIP.
In her closing message, DILG Bukidnon Provincial Director Rhona Pedraza-Abadilla emphasized that reintegration is a shared responsibility requiring sustained cooperation among government agencies, local communities, and the beneficiaries themselves. She echoed the province’s vision of “Kalinaw, Kadasig, ug Kalambuan,” underscoring that peace creates opportunities for development, while development strengthens the gains of peace.
The release of assistance reflects a broader lesson from communities emerging from armed conflict: lasting reintegration is built not only through financial support but also through opportunities that enable former rebels to regain stability, restore their place in society, and build a future beyond the conflict that once defined their lives.
Discover more from Lamdag Media
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
