NABUNTURAN, Davao de Oro—Former rebels stood alongside provincial officials, security forces, and community leaders as Davao de Oro commemorated the fourth anniversary of its declaration as an insurgency-free province on Monday, June 22, at the Provincial Capitol.
The event marked four years since the province was officially declared free from insurgency-related influence and armed conflict, a milestone that local leaders attribute not only to security operations but also to the active participation of former rebels who chose to return to civilian life and contribute to peacebuilding efforts.
Among those recognized were members of Kalinaw Davao de Oro, an organization of former rebels that has become a key partner of the provincial government in sustaining peace, countering violent extremism, and supporting development initiatives in communities once affected by armed conflict.
For many former combatants, the anniversary served as a reminder of how far they have come since leaving the armed struggle behind.
“As former rebels, we once lived in the mountains believing that armed struggle was the only path toward change,” said Alias Pia, speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries of government reintegration programs. “Today, we stand as proof that peace offers more opportunities—not only for ourselves but also for our families and communities.”
As part of the commemoration, 45 former rebels received financial and livelihood assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The assistance aims to support their continued reintegration and help them establish sustainable sources of income.
Governor Raul G. Mabanglo led the ceremonial turnover alongside representatives from partner agencies and emphasized the importance of maintaining strong partnerships between government institutions and former rebels.
“Together, we have demonstrated that peace is not achieved through security measures alone,” Mabanglo said. “It is sustained through trust, cooperation, and a shared commitment to ensuring that development reaches every community.”
The governor added that the provincial government remains committed to programs that strengthen local resilience, expand economic opportunities, and address the conditions that once fueled armed conflict.
Major General Alvin Luzon, Commander of the 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, likewise underscored the role of former rebels in maintaining stability in the province.
“The collaboration and cooperation of all stakeholders remain at the forefront of our efforts to sustain the insurgency-free status of Davao de Oro,” Luzon said. “Peace is not a destination. It is a continuing responsibility that requires the participation of every sector.”
Four years after the declaration, the province’s experience continues to illustrate a broader reality: that lasting peace is built not only through the silencing of guns, but through the transformation of former rebels into partners for development, reconciliation, and community-building.
For the former rebels gathered at the Capitol, the anniversary was more than a celebration of peace maintained. It was a testament to lives rebuilt—and to a future no longer defined by conflict, but by shared progress.
Discover more from Lamdag Media
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
