Seven ex-rebels get gov’t aid

By Jennifer P. Rendon

 

Seven former rebels in Iloilo have received assistance through the government’s Enhanced–Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E–CLIP).

They got their E-CLIP benefits – firearms remuneration, immediate cash, and livelihood assistance – during the turn-over rites at the Governors Hall of the Iloilo Provincial Capitol in Iloilo City on October 12.

Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. led the distribution of the E–CLIP package assistance to former rebels.

Also in attendance were Teodora Sumagaysay, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – Iloilo director; Lieutenant Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, 61st Infantry Battalion commander; Police Colonel Gilbert Gorero, Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) chief;  and Rev. Reynaldo Romero, civil society organization representative.

The beneficiaries received a total of P589,000 E-CLIP assistance.

Just like other rebels who surrendered ahead of them, the seven claimed that the New People’s Army (NPA) lured them into joining the armed group by promising them with financial support for their family if they join the organization.

However, as expected, those were false promises.

“They later decided to abandon the armed movement after realizing that they were fighting for a senseless struggle,” Batara said.

Further, the 61st IB commander said the peace advocacy program showed that the government is serious in giving the former rebels a chance to start a new and peaceful life.

Also, he assured the Philippine Army will always support the former rebels, not only through empowerment, but by also giving them security assistance as they return to the mainstream society.

“As we turn their dreams for a peaceful life into reality through E-CLIP, we are looking forward to more number of rebels not only in Iloilo but in whole Panay laying down their firearms to embrace peace and development,” Batara said.