Ex-rebels get de-radicalization training to aid gov’t in peace efforts

By Jennifer P. Rendon

 

How do you de-radicalize a rebel?

Let them hear talks and testimonies from former rebels. Or so the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division believes.

Recently, the 3ID conducted a nine-day Speakers’ Team Training (STT) for the De-Radicalization program at the 3ID headquarters in Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz.

Thirteen former rebels – eight from Negros Island and five from Panay – completed the STT program.

The 13 former rebels voluntarily surrendered and underwent de-radicalization program.

The 3ID hierarchy and the People’s Advocacy for Collaboration and Empowerment (PeACE), organized the STT program.

Major Cenon Pancito, 3ID spokesman, said the STT aims to educate FR’s on the fundamentals of public speaking and encourage them to assist the government in its peace and development initiatives.

It also capacitates former rebels in their role as third party advocates of the government through training.

“The training would also help to contribute in the de-radicalization of former rebels and discuss ideological corrections on issues concerning peace,” he said.

Pancito said that holding of such training would also help to realign the experience and knowledge of former rebels towards peace and development efforts of the government and enlighten students/youth and other target audience on communist terrorist groups’ infiltration through their actual accounts, narrative, and testimonies.

Part of the objective was also to strengthen the partnership between the PeACE, he said. Meanwhile, Major General Eric Vinoya, 3ID commander, said that the de-radicalization training will prevent ex-rebels from being lured by communist ideologies again to NPA recruitment.

The training will also help them embrace new lives and succeed in life after choosing the right path of returning to their families and communities.

“Your Army in Western and Central Visayas is here to help and support you as you return to the folds of the law. Start a peaceful life by moving on and embracing what you’ve learned. Our government is determined in extending its help because it doesn’t want anyone to be left behind,” Vinoya said.