13 Surigao Norte peace advocates complete deradicalization program
By Susil D. Ragas
The initiative was a collaborative effort between the 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion of the Philippine Army and the provincial government of Surigao del Norte through the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) designed to promote healing, trust-building, and preparation for the participants’ seamless reintegration into their respective communities.
The Deradicalization Program uses psychosocial sessions and spiritual renewal to help participants embrace change and rediscover their self-worth.
Nicanor, a former high-ranking member of the communist terrorist group (CTG), conveyed a profound realization gained from the program. “Pinaagi niini nga progama naila nako ang akong kaugalingon. Nasabtan nako nga dili diay ang gobyerno among kaaway. Kami ra diay ang nasayop nga ideolohiya. Dili pa ulahi ang tanan para magbag-o ug mobalik sa gobyerno.”
(Through this program, I came to know myself. I realized that the government is not our enemy. We were simply victims of a mistaken ideology. It is not too late for all of us to change and go back to the government.)
He also called upon his former comrades who are still hiding and fighting in the mountains, saying, “Sa akong mga kauban nga naa pa sa bukid, huna-hunaa ang inyong pamilya. Ayaw ninyo tugoti nga parehas kami mag-antus sa kasaypanan. Naay gobyerno nga andam maminaw ug motabang. Ang tinood nga pakigbisog karon mao ang pagpangita ug kalinaw, dili ang giyera.”
(To my companions still in the mountains, think of your families. Do not allow yourselves to suffer for a mistake. There is a government ready to listen and help. The true struggle now is the search for peace, not war).
30th Infantry Battalion Philippine Army, Commanding Officer Albert M. Batingga recognized the participants’ bravery. “The lessons you gained here will guide your journey. You stand as proof that peace is the better path, not only for yourselves, but for the next generation.”
This vital support structure is provided through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government which provides psychosocial support and livelihood assistance to help former rebels rebuild their lives and contribute to lasting peace.
Surigao del Norte is the only province in the Caraga region that is declared as insurgency-free. This triumph inspires the duty bearers to sustain the gains of peace and development agenda in the province, transforming cognitive understanding that peace continues to grow, not through war, but through forgiveness, hope, and second chances. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from 30IB-PA)