Surigao Sur advances peace through reintegration of former rebels
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) -- In a collaborative effort with the 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army (PA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), the provincial government of Surigao del Sur led by Governor Alexander Pimentel recently administered the oath of allegiance to 91 former rebels at the Governor Vicente T. Pimentel Multi-Purpose Hall in Tandag City.
Standing alongside Gov. Pimentel as chairperson of the Caraga Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) were key military officials of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) under the command of Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, ably represented by Brigadier General Francisco F. Lorenzo Jr., commander of the 401st Brigade, and BGEN Arsenio D.C. Sadural, commander of the 901st Brigade.
“These former members of the New People’s Army (NPA), now referred as "friends rescued (FR)," stood united in civilian attire, symbolizing their new commitment to peace and reintegration,” the governor said.
“The ceremony accordingly did not only provide them an opportunity to reunite with their families but also served as a testament to their resilience and willingness to rebuild their lives,’ he added.
"Alyas Dodong,” an FR and a resident of San Miguel town shared his heartfelt sentiment in an interview, capturing the collective hope of those returning to civilian life.
He narrated as he described himself as someone who chose a new path for change towards peace, hope, and unity. He said, “Change can be achieved in ways that do not bring pain and suffering to their families and communities; and not by fighting and struggling hardship against the government.”
“Today, with my brothers and sisters who also laid down their arms, we are embracing a fresh start. We are grateful to the government for welcoming us, and for offering us the chance to rebuild our lives. This path is not easy, but we are ready to work hard and contribute to building a better society,” he added.
Alayas Dodong also called on those remaining members who are still in the mountains and urged them to come down and join them to live a normal life with peace. “There is hope, and there is a way forward together," he noted.
The formal presentation of the former rebels was accompanied by the symbolic turnover of surrendered firearms. This gesture underscored a profound commitment from both the former rebels and the government to work together for a peaceful future. The ceremony demonstrated a shared resolve to replace conflict with opportunity and to nurture a new chapter for the individuals now rejoining society.
The provincial government also highlighted its programs designed to support these former rebels as they transition to civilian life, emphasizing access to skills development, educational programs, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Through these initiatives, Surigao del Sur sustained in advancing its vision on lasting peace and growth, providing new pathways for those who once knew only conflict.
Meanwhile, the former rebels will undergo due process to avail the program on Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government. (NGPB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
