The Philippine Army and the Provincial Government recently concluded their First Provincial Former Rebels Summit Federation 2025 at Camp MGen Gatan, Barangay Sto. Niño, San Jose City, Nueva Ecija on 24 October 2025.

Hosted by the 84th Infantry “Victorious” Battalion, the two-day event engaged participants in legal briefings, spiritual reflection, and foundational workshops on the first day. The second day focused on translating these insights into concrete action.

Former rebels, line agencies, military units, and local government representatives reconvened to finalize reintegration strategies under the Transformation Program.

A key focus of the whole-day activity was the needs assessment and leveling-off workshop with government agencies of Nueva Ecija. The session allowed former rebels and stakeholders to identify pressing concerns and align available support with real community needs.

Through open dialogue and collaborative planning, participants laid the groundwork and co-developed draft action plans with agencies for responsive, sustained action. These were refined to address socio-economic needs, security and confidence-building measures, and healing and reconciliation, with line agencies committing to support implementation.

The summit also gave former rebels a safe space to speak from the heart. Through personal testimonials, they shared their journeys of turning away from armed struggle and finding new purpose in peacebuilding.

During the closing program, the ceremonial turnover of PhilHealth IDs, led by Mr. Angelito V. Creencio, CSIO of the Gapan Office, affirmed the former rebels’ renewed access to public services and rightful place in society.

703rd Infantry Brigade Deputy Brigade Commander Col. Arcadio S. Posada, MNSA (INF) PA, said the summit is not just a gathering but an important step to boost reintegration efforts and strengthen community collaboration.

Far more than a symbolic gathering, the summit marked a decisive stride toward lasting peace. It served as a resounding call for the government and stakeholders to actively participate in healing the deep scars left by years of armed conflict.

Acting Governor Gil Raymond M. Umali said the provincial government fully supports the reintegration of former rebels and the collective pursuit of lasting peace.

Brigadier General Marion D. Jacinto emphasized the summit’s role in aligning operational efforts with community-based transformation, affirming that peace is not just declared but actively built through coordination, trust, and sustained engagement.

Through sustained action, the summit was not a one-time event. It marked the beginning of a continuing journey under the Transformation Program, with more workshops and follow-through activities to come.