Agusan Norte town Christmas initiative highlights support for ‘peace advocates’
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — A Christmas gift-giving activity for the so-called “peace advocates” (former rebels) took place in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, recently, as the local government’s way of showing commitment to improving their living conditions.
Mayor Joselito T. Roble led a Christmas gift-giving activity for the 49 peace advocates and their families at the Masigasig Happy Homes at the Jamboree Site in Barangay Alubijid, Buenavista.
The activity was part of the LGU’s broader peace and development efforts, underscoring that celebrating Christmas with dignity, joy, and inclusion is an essential component of reintegration and healing. Mayor Roble said the initiative reflects the government’s responsibility to extend care not only through programs and services, but also through moments that strengthen family and community bonds.
“Ang Pasko para sa tanan, labi na sa atong mga kabataan. Kining selebrasyon usa ka pahinumdom nga wala namo sila biya-i ug padayon namong tabangan ang ilang mga pamilya nga makabarog pag-usab (Christmas is for everyone, especially our children. This celebration is a reminder that we have not abandoned them and that we will continue to help their families stand up and move forward again),” Mayor Roble said.
Children were at the heart of the celebration, with 61 children aged 5 to 15 receiving toys, cash prizes, noche buena packs, and rice assistance for their parents. Roble emphasized that while the Christmas activity brings immediate joy, it also symbolizes the LGU’s long-term commitment to ensuring that no family is left behind, particularly those transitioning from conflict to peaceful community life. He reiterated the LGU’s continued support for the children’s education through school supplies, uniforms, and scholarships for tertiary students as investments in a better future.
The local chief executive also highlighted ongoing interventions such as public safety initiatives, sustainable livelihood programs, and the nearing completion of the housing project under OPAPRU, which aims to provide peace advocates’ families with safe and decent homes. He encouraged beneficiaries to settle pending legal concerns to enable them to access employment opportunities and fully reintegrate into society.
The initiative aligns with the provincial government’s peace and development agenda, as Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante continues to ensure that programs addressing the welfare, reintegration, and livelihood of the former rebels and their families are prioritized. The provincial leadership recognizes that sustained support, especially for children and families affected by conflict, is vital in building lasting peace and inclusive growth in Agusan del Norte.
Alyas Joy, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Masigasig Homes community. “Salamat kaayo sa 23rd Infantry Battalion, LGU Buenavista labi na kang Mayor Roble kay giapil mi sa selebrasyon sa Pasko. Nalipay gyud mi kay gishare ninyo ang kalipay ug gihimo ninyo nga espesyal among Pasko (Thank you very much to the 23rd Infantry Battalion and the LGU of Buenavista, especially Mayor Roble, for including us in the Christmas celebration. We are truly happy because you shared the joy with us and made our Christmas special).”
Meanwhile, the Commanding Officer of the 23rd Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Glennford C. Libre of the Philippine Army, expressed appreciation for the LGU Buenavista’s consistent support, noting that such initiatives contribute significantly to peace, stability, and community development. The activity reflected a whole-of-government approach to peace, inclusion, and sustainable development. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
