Seven rebel returnees received cash grants from the task force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) in Palawan as livelihood assistance to help facilitate their reintegration into mainstream society.
Each received a P90,000 financial assistance package on Tuesday from Western Command (WESCOM) commander Vice Adm. Rene Medina and Governor Jose Alvarez through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and Rey Maranan of the provincial Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) office.
The cash grants were awarded under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and Local Social Integration Program (LSIP).
Of the total figure, P15,000 is immediate assistance for mobilization expenses; P50,000 for livelihood assistance; and P25,000 as inclusive livelihood assistance from the LSIP.
“The continuous rise of NPA surrenders in Palawan shows that task force ELCAC’s resolve in attaining peace through the implementation of E-CLIP as immediate assistance for their reintegration into the society,” Medina said.
“This is also a manifestation of the former rebels’ desire and hope for new beginnings and a better future. Their reintegration will also advance their involvement in promoting both individual and community development,” he added.
Meanwhile, partner agencies in the province through the Palawan Task Force ELCAC are urging the public to continuously help the government in making the integration process successful by encouraging more rebels to return to the folds of the law and be productive citizens of the country.
