23IB, PAFCPIC provide livelihood to friends rescued
BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Intended to sustain and improve existing programs to former rebels, also known as friends rescued (FRs), the Philippine Army Finance Center Producers Integrated Cooperative (PAFCPIC) - Butuan, in partnership with the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion, Philippine Army (23IB), recently provided additional income opportunities to FRs at headquarters of 23IB in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
PAFCPIC is a multi-awarded cooperative offering financial services through deposits and loans to its members serving in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The program for the FRs is part of their community development by reaching out to the FRs and their communities so they will be motivated to contribute and participate in economic activities and livelihood opportunities.
“Our government is very much willing to give any assistance you need. But always remember, we have the help, your efforts and determination are essential to your success,” Norman F. Torres, community development manager, PAFCPIC-Main Office said during his speech.
On the other hand, Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey P Balingao, commanding officer of the 23IB expressed his gratitude to the PAFCPIC for the continuous support of the cooperative to the FRs.
“This endeavor is a community-based capacity-building program initiated by PAFCIPIC to address the needs of FRs, their families, and communities to aid them in their transformation, and strengthen their resiliency against the recovery efforts of communist terrorist groups (CTGs),” LTC Balingao said.
The 23IB continues to strengthen its convergence and coordination with all government instrumentalities to deliver much-needed support to the FRs, as a whole-of- nation approach for a transformational journey and meaningful re-integration of the FRs to mainstream society. (23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)
