Former rebels (FRs) were treated not as security risks but as families and neighbors during a Christmas outreach led by the Palawan provincial government in Brooke’s Point, where children and elderly residents became the focus of assistance.
The gift-giving activity, held on December 18 under the Pathways to Peace and Reintegration Program, reached 75 elderly beneficiaries and 70 children from the barangays of Maasin, Ipilan, and Samariñana.
The recipients were families of former rebels who have returned to the fold of the government.
The activity was led by the provincial government under Governor Amy Roa Alvarez, in coordination with the Office of the Governor–YAKAP and the local government of Brooke’s Point, Palawan. The three communities’ barangay officials also participated.
Instead of focusing on security concerns, the program centered on daily needs and family life. Children joined games and received school supplies, while elderly residents were given food packs and basic goods. The outreach also included free haircuts, feeding activities, and rice distribution.
Support came from several provincial offices and partner groups, including the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the Brooke’s Point Municipal Police Station, the 3rd Marine Brigade, Marine Battalion Landing Team 11, the Junior Chamber International, and private partners.
Provincial officials said the activity showed that reintegration efforts go beyond end po ing armed conflict, placing emphasis on helping former rebels and their families return to ordinary community life, with children and the elderly among the most visible beneficiaries.
