Misamis Occidental–At least 8 former rebels (FRs) in Misamis Occidental can now smoothly be reintegrated into mainstream society as the provincial government vowed continuous assistance.
FRs who yielded to the folds of the law and committed to supporting the cause for peace will receive whole-of-government assistance, beginning with a Php300,000 cash aid from the Misamis Occidental provincial government.
In a ceremonial handover event on Thursday (Dec. 21), Governor Henry S. Oaminal, Vice Governor Rowena Gutierrez and board members and Sapang Dalaga Mayor Donjie Animas in close coordination with the 10th IB Commanding Officer, LtCol. Jose Andre Monje, graced the distribution of cash assistance to each former combatant at Camp Burgos in Oroquieta City.
On top of it, one neutralized Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), formerly operating in the province’s vicinities also received Php300,000 in financial assistance, which they can use to put a cooperative business, which also serves as part of their integration process in the community.
Oaminal said extending financial aid to FRs and communist groups signifies the provincial government’s seriousness to end local communist armed conflict in Misamis Occidental.
“Kana among gihimo nga suporta usa kana ka simbolo nga wala nay hinungdan nga kita mag-away ug magkahiusa kay tungod atong mga kalsada nindot na, atong mga serbisyo, ang atong social assistance, and educational development program,” Oaminal said in his remarks.
He then assured the government’s willingness to help every former combatant to renew their lives and get a promising future ahead.
“In support with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and National Government Agencies in inviting our brothers and sisters nga naa sa kabukiran to join us in the folds of the law with the program of a sustainable livelihood program nga gihatag sa national government through DSWD,” the governor further stated.
Oaminal added that the distribution of the cash assistance also means a lot as they likewise wanted the FRs to realize that they are not alone and “that the Misamis Occidental government will always back their endeavors for a brighter and peaceful future.”
“Kami pod sa provincial government atong gidungagan ang voluntary nga nag surender sa provincial government pinaagi sa cash assistance program nga P500,000, P300,000 depending sa level sa inyong pakigbasog,” he said.
In response, the beneficiaries have expressed gratitude to the government for extending a helping hand not only to themselves but also to their families.
The FRs also vowed they would return the favor by becoming productive members of mainstream society.
