THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) has recorded a total of 5,488 former rebels enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) since 2016.
“Speaking about the E-CLIP program, those former rebels enrolled have access to various programs from local government units and national support through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict,” Major Salvacion Evangelista, spokesperson for EastMinCom, told reporters at Wednesday’s Davao Peace and Security press briefing held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel.
The 10th Infantry Division has a total of 2,832 former rebels enrolled in the E-CLIP program, while 2,656 former rebels who surrendered to the 4th Infantry Division are also enrolled in the program.
“We regularly conduct former rebel summits to update their records and assess the reliability of the programs provided to them. If any programs are lacking, the government can enhance them,” Evangelista stated.
“As part of the sustainment efforts, additional programs are offered by the government to support the needs of former rebels,” she added.
E-CLIP is a comprehensive, integrated, and community-based national program designed to address the legal status and security of former rebels, as well as their economic, social, and psychological rehabilitation needs.
By assisting individuals who have returned to the fold of the law and wish to become productive citizens, E-CLIP promotes reconciliation in a non-violent manner.
Recently, EastMinCom announced the surrender of 192 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to various units within its area of responsibility on June 1 of this year.
Major Salvacion Evangelista informed reporters during Wednesday’s Davao Peace and Security press briefing that a total of 192 NPA members surrendered between June 1 and Oct. 7.
“These 192 individuals surrendered, and immediately after, they undergo evaluation and receive cash assistance from the local government units where they are enrolled in a program,” Evangelista said.
“Not only do they receive cash assistance, but there are also social interventions provided by the government for the surrenderees,” she added.
Photo courtesy of Rhoda Grace Saron
