CATBALOGAN CITY — Former guerrilla combatants and mass supporters of the communist New People’s Army who have surrendered to the government received over P3.4 million of cash assistance to help them rebuild their lives.

A total of 74 former rebels from the Samar towns of 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 received their financial aid on Wednesday, 12 February at the Convention Hall of Samar provincial government.

Among the recipients were 37 former NPA combatants who received P75,000 each; 17 milisya ng bayan member who received P10,000 each; and 20 mass supporters who received P1,000 each.

The financial assistance was given through the Local Social Integration Program of the Province of Samar facilitated by the Provincial Social Welfare Development Office.

Samar Gov. Sharee Ann Tan said the program helps former rebels reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives. She also thanked the former rebels for abandoning the armed struggle and their cooperation with the government.