SEVENTY-FIVE former rebels received more than P2 million in cash assistance from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Davao De Oro celebrated its first anniversary of being declared an insurgency-free province at the Provincial Capitol, Barangay Cabidianan, Nabunturan, on June 22.
Major Mark Anthony Tito, the 10th Infantry Division 40 former rebels (FR), received P2.8 million from the E-CLIP, and another 35 former rebels received P10,000 each from the provincial E-CLIP.
The event started with a motorcade followed by a soft opening of the halfway house for former rebels called Kalayaan Village in Barangay Libasan, Nabunturan.
During the ceremony, Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga led the distribution of cash assistance to the former rebels.
In her message, Gonzaga said that it was a day of reflection, gratitude, and renewed determination as they looked back at the achievements and challenges that the people of Davao De Oro went through and overcame.
“Let us use this occasion to reinforce our determination to combat all forms of insurgency, including those that originate from within. Together we can ensure a brighter future for all the people of Davao De Oro,” Gonzaga added.
Moreover, Allen A. Capuyan, the National Commission of the Indigenous People chair, attributed the successful fight against insurgency in Davao De Oro to the National Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), where he also served as the former executive director.
“Through our hard-earned success, we have left no room for their return (referring to the Communist Terrorist Group). Thanks to the collective efforts of NTF-ELCAC, good governance, and the resilient spirit of the people. Let us internalize the essence of good governance and embrace the boundless dedication to public service,” Capuyan added.
Meanwhile, Major General Jose Eriel M Niembra, 10th Infantry Division commander, urged everyone during his speech to remain vigilant and united to prevent resurgence.
Also present during the event were 1001st Infantry Brigade commander Colonel Felix Ronnie B Babac, 701st Infantry Brigade commander BGen Oliver C. Maquiling, 1st District Rep. Ruwel Peter Gonzaga, other battalion commanders, and Davao De Oro mayors.
