by mgd
Tacloban City– Seventy-four former combatants of the Communist New Peoples Army have received a total of Php 3,440,000.00 financial assistance through the Local Social Integration Program (LSIP) of Samar provincial government.
Accordingly the assistance was distributed among 37 NPA regular rebels, 17 milisyang bayan members, and 20 mass supporters. The funds were allocated as follows: Php 3,150,000.00 for regular rebels, Php 270,000.00 for milisyang bayan members, and Php 20,000.00 for mass supporters.
The recipients, who hailed from various municipalities across Samar province—including 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—gathered at the Convention Hall in Catbalogan City for the payout.
The distribution was facilitated by the Provincial Social Welfare Development Office headed by Ms. Alma Austero and its support personnel.
The distribution was headed by Governor Sharee Ann Tan and was joined by COL Carmelito T Pangatungan Inf (MNSA) PA and Judy Batulan, the DILG Provincial Director. In her message, Governor Tan emphasized the importance of the program in helping 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.
The former rebels expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Governor Tan for the assistance that marks a new beginning and offers renewed hope through the financial aid. They also extended their thanks to the 801st Brigade Philippine Army for their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in the province, for their service to the people, and for securing the land. The former rebels acknowledged the Army’s pivotal role in helping them reintegrate into society, embracing the rule of law after years of conflict.
The gratitude extended to the Governor and the military also highlighted the importance of selfless service in ensuring a better future. Additionally, they encouraged the families of those still involved with the Communist Terrorist Groups (CNTs) and the remaining NPA members in the mountains to return to the fold of the law, to rejoin society, and to embrace the opportunities for peace and progress that the government offers.