DAVAO DEL NORTE -- The Marcos administration expanded its socioeconomic assistance for former combatants on Thursday delivering livelihood grants and operational support during the 1st Balay Kalinaw Former Rebels Peace Summit.

Hundreds of former rebels and representative organizations gathered at the 601B Multipurpose Gymnasium in Doña Andrea to receive assistance packages aimed at facilitating their transition back into peaceful civilian life.

Special Assistant to the President Anton F. Lagdameo Jr. delivered the keynote message, stating that national policy focuses on providing long-term economic opportunities alongside the cessation of armed conflict.

"It is the clear directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. that the return to peaceful civilian life should come with livelihood, development and opportunities for a better future," Lagdameo said.

The administration previously allocated more than P17.5 million through the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity in June to establish the Balay Kalinaw Peace and Development Center.

The facility serves as a primary hub for transforming and reintegrating former combatants, their families and local communities.

During the summit, officials distributed sustainable livelihood grants for agricultural and merchandising ventures, coconut seedlings, and direct financial support.

Lagdameo contributed P2 million from personal family funds to assist local people's organizations, allocating P500,000 to KALINAW Southeastern Mindanao Region, P250,000 to the KAMANYAN Riverside Farmers Association, and P250,000 to the NAPO Farmers Association.

"The assistance you will receive is not only aid," Lagdameo told attendees. "It is capital for a new life."

The event marked the official opening of Davao del Norte's observance of National Peace Consciousness Month under the theme "From the Past, Towards a Peaceful and Prosperous Future."

The program included an oath-taking ceremony for newly elected officers of former rebels' organizations and recognized the second anniversary of the Ata Manobo Former Rebels Association.