Former rebel in Surigao Sur praises gov’t, encourages others to choose peace
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — A former rebel identified as ‘Ka Luna,’ formerly affiliated with Guerrilla Front 19, thanked the government for the assistance she received under the reintegration program.
“Pag-declare kanako nga surrenderer, nadawat nako ang mga financial assistance nga gikan sa gobyerno. Pasalamat namo kang Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel sa iyahang mga paningkamot ug sa mga kauban pod nako nga former rebels (FRs) nga natabangan sa ilang pagpanugod sa pagpanginabuhi,” Ka Luna said, as she also encourages remaining rebels to choose peace for a better future.
(When I was declared a surrenderee, I received financial assistance from the government. I am grateful to Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel for his efforts and for helping other former rebels have their new livelihoods.)
Her statement reflects FRs’ growing trust in the government as they continue to benefit from the reintegration programs that provide financial assistance, livelihood opportunities, and skills development, supporting their transition into productive members of society.
Meanwhile, 19 FRs received various forms of assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and other partner agencies.
The ceremonial awarding of assistance was conducted during the 1st quarter Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting in Tandag City, highlighting continuing collaboration among national agencies, local government units, and security forces in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected communities.
Of the 19 FRs who benefited from the E-CLIP program, eight of the beneficiaries came from the operational area of the 36th Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Joselito B. Ante Jr.
The awarding ceremony was led by Gov. Pimentel, who reaffirmed the provincial government’s strong support for reintegration initiatives that empower former rebels to rebuild their lives and contribute to community development.
Each beneficiary received a total of ₱75,000 in financial assistance, including ₱65,000 for livelihood support and ₱10,000 as immediate cash aid. This assistance is designed to help former rebels build sustainable livelihoods, secure stable income, and provide for their families as they reintegrate into civilian life, offering a concrete foundation for a fresh start and a productive future.
Beyond financial aid, beneficiaries were also provided with livelihood and skills training from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), temporary employment opportunities under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers Program (TUPAD) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and hygiene kits distributed by the Provincial Health Office of Surigao del Sur (PHO).
These integrated services demonstrate the government’s whole-of-nation approach to addressing the root causes of insurgency by promoting inclusive opportunities, strengthening livelihoods, and supporting long-term community stability.
Military encourages remaining armed individuals to surrender
Lieutenant Colonel Ante emphasized that the 36th Infantry Battalion will continue to encourage remaining armed individuals to surrender and take advantage of government programs designed to support peaceful reintegration.
He highlighted that the E-CLIP program not only provides financial assistance but also creates pathways to education, employment, and livelihood opportunities that promote family and community stability.
“The E-CLIP program offers not only financial support but also a chance for a new beginning and a better future for former rebels and their families,” Ante said.
Whole-of-government approach strengthens peace and development
The reintegration of FRs forms part of the broader peace and development agenda of the national government, which emphasizes collaboration among agencies and local stakeholders to address the underlying causes of insurgency.
Through sustained coordination among key agencies, the government continues to provide FRs with opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute to nation-building.
The initiative highlights the government’s continued efforts to strengthen nationwide peace initiatives that promote inclusive growth, foster trust among communities, and ensure that former rebels are given the chance to live productive and peaceful lives.
As more FRs avail of reintegration programs, government officials remain hopeful that sustained support, strong leadership, and community participation will pave the way for lasting peace and development not only in Surigao del Sur but across conflict-affected areas in the country.
Through unity, compassion, and sustained government support, the path toward lasting peace continues to unfold, one reintegrated life at a time. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
