Former Agusan Norte insurgents get reintegration benefits

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Fifty-nine former combatants received a combined total of P3.8 million in reintegration benefits under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) during a ceremony at the Provincial Training Center in Agusan del Norte.

The distribution was conducted jointly by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office.

Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante led the turnover ceremony, encouraging the recipients — referred to by program administrators as “Friends Rescued” — to act as peace advocates in their home villages.

“I appeal to you — help us ensure that no one else falls victim to insurgent recruitment,” Amante told the beneficiaries. “You are living witnesses to the path you have traveled. It is our shared responsibility to protect others from going through the same hardships.”

Amante urged the recipients to invest the capital into sustainable small businesses, family welfare and long-term community development.

Lt. Col. Rodulfo S. Cordero Jr., acting commanding officer of the Philippine Army’s 29th Infantry Battalion, commended the former rebels for choosing to reintegrate into mainstream society.

“When we work together, we achieve so much more,” Cordero said. “The 29IB stands ready to serve and support you. Thank you for choosing peace.”