Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos Jr. attended the Joint Regional Task Force Region 8-Enhanced Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF8-ELCAC) in Tacloban City as part of his visit to Eastern Visayas.

In his role as the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security in Region 8 (CORDS8), Abalos discussed his plans for regional development and security and received updates from the various reports presented by member agencies of the JRTF8-ELCAC during the meeting.

The National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Region 8 also shared its presentation on development challenges as part of the meeting and information for CORDS8.

During the meeting, DILG chief Abalos provided guidance on how to improve and give possible solutions to all the issues and concerns raised by the council members.

In the same meeting, Abalos personally oversaw the distribution of checks to former rebels (FRs). A total of 35 FRs from Northern Samar and 16 FRs from Eastern Samar received package assistance valued at 2.9 million pesos under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Also, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has demilitarized 56 firearms surrendered by former rebels and remunerated through the ECLIP program.

Abalos was also elated over the result of the meeting, where he reiterated the goal of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to let those at the grassroots feel and witness the presence of the government.

"It has been a fruitful meeting (with the) Joint Task Force ELCAC. Halos lahat ng ahensya andoon (sa meeting) para sa economic assistance. Hindi lang yun, sa peace and order, lahat ng kailangan mangyari para ang lugar ay mabago nang husto," he added during the media interview after the meeting.

He also stated that they have identified the local government units (LGUs) requiring support and will provide them with the necessary assistance in accordance with the programs of JRTF-ELCAC.