11 FORMER REBELS IN SURIGAO NORTE GET ASSISTANCE UNDER E-CLIP

The eleven former rebels (FRs) in the province of Surigao del Norte were provided with assistance from the government through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) in a simple ceremony held at the Provincial Capitol, Surigao City, April 14. Each FR received P65,000 as immediate financial and livelihood assistance while those who surrendered their firearms have received an additional amount as remuneration.

Also, non-monetary items were given to the former rebels such as food

By Venus L. Garcia

packs and health kits.

Surigao del Norte Gov. Francisco Matugas and 901st Infantry Brigade commander Brigadier General George Banzon led the distribution of said cash aid to the NPA combatants who surrendered to the government during the late months of 2020 and early of 2021. To make the former rebels more productive and sustain their lives as they go back to the mainstream society, the provincial government of Surigao del Norte will also aid them through trainings, employment, and community-based income-generating activities.

Overall, the package of assistance provided to the 11 former rebels amounted to P2.1 million. Banzon reiterated that returning to the fold of the law is still the better option. He urged other NPA rebels to restore their allegiance to the government.

Through E-CLIP, FRs can be reintegrated back to the community, be with their families, and start over with their new, normal lives with the help of the financial benefits intended for their development. (VLG/PIASurigao del Norte)