TACLOBAN CITY – About 74 former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and their supporters received a total of P3.44 million in financial assistance from the provincial government of Samar in a turnover ceremony held in Catbalogan City.
The aid was distributed among 37 former NPA members, 17 members of the milisyang bayan, and 20 mass supporters. Former regular NPA members received a total of P3.15 million, while P270,000 was given to the milisyang bayan members, and P20,000 to the mass supporters.
The assistance package includes transition support, livelihood aid, and firearm remuneration to help the recipients start anew and reintegrate into mainstream society.
Beneficiaries came from various municipalities across Samar, including Basey, Calbiga, Hinabangan, Jiabong, Matuguinao, Motiong, Marabut, Pinabacdao, Paranas, San Jorge, and Villareal, as well as Dolores in Eastern Samar and Las Navas in Northern Samar.
The distribution was led by Governor Sharee Ann Tan, with support from 801st Deputy Brigade Commander Col. Carmelito Pangatunan and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Judy Batulan.
In her speech, Gov. Tan underscored the program’s significance in helping former rebels rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities. She also thanked them for choosing the path of peace and cooperating with the government.
Expressing their gratitude, the former rebels acknowledged the provincial government’s assistance as a symbol of hope and a fresh start.
They also commended the 801st Brigade of the Philippine Army for its dedication to maintaining peace and for helping them transition into a lawful and productive life.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
