TACLOBAN CITY – Three former rebels from Eastern Samar have received financial assistance through the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), aimed at helping former insurgents reintegrate into society.
E-CLIP is a national program that addresses the legal status, security, and rehabilitation needs—both economic and psychological—of former rebels. It provides them with opportunities to rebuild their lives through various forms of assistance.
During a turnover ceremony held at the provincial government office conference hall in Borongan City on October 16, a total of P195,000 was distributed to the three beneficiaries.
Each former rebel received P65,000, comprising P15,000 for immediate assistance and P50,000 for livelihood support.
Gov. Ben Evardone personally handed over the financial assistance during the E-CLIP Committee meeting, which was attended by various key officials, including 78th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Joseph Bugaoan, DILG Eastern Samar provincial director Johannes Dorado, and Eastern Samar Police Provincial Director Col. Ernesto R. Macasil.
Other notable attendees were provincial peace and development officer Engr. Joselito Mutia, provincial social welfare and development officer Lina A. Dulfo, and E-CLIP focal persons Dorris Cajegas and Engr. Finiel Loste.
Gov. Evardone reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting former rebels as they transition back into society.
“The provincial government has a range of programs and services aimed at helping Friends Rescued [former rebels] rebuild their lives. We are always ready to assist those who have turned away from the armed struggle and chosen to work with the government. Eastern Samar is here for them,” the governor said.
He assured the former rebels that the provincial government would continue to provide the necessary support to help them achieve a peaceful and productive life.
The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the Provincial Government and the various agencies that helped facilitate the assistance, noting that the financial aid would be a significant boost to their existing small businesses and new livelihood ventures.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
