In Eastern Samar
TACLOBAN CITY – Fifteen former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Samar have received financial assistance from the national government through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), as part of ongoing efforts to support their reintegration into society.
Each former rebel received P10,000 under the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, which provides emergency aid to individuals and families experiencing extreme crises, including victims of calamities and those with limited resources.
Ten of the beneficiaries are from Oras town, assisted by the 52nd Infantry Battalion (IB), while the remaining five were assisted by the 78th IB based in Borongan City.
The distribution of aid took place in Oras and Borongan through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office. The events were attended by 78th IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Francis Rosales and Major Leoden Bajado of the 52nd IB.
Military officials expressed hope that the financial assistance will support the former rebels as they transition back into civilian life. They emphasized that this aid forms part of the government’s broader efforts to promote peace and ensure that those who return to the fold of the law are not left behind.
Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the DSWD and the Philippine Army for their continuous support, sharing optimism for a peaceful and more secure future for themselves and their families.
Both military officers and DSWD personnel reaffirmed their commitment to providing former rebels with holistic support, including livelihood training, psycho-social services, and community reintegration programs, in addition to financial assistance.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
