The Provincial Government of Palawan launched a community service caravan and the Project Bangkuka livelihood initiative for former rebels in Barangay Samariñana, Brooke’s Point on Nov. 14. The activity formed part of the Pathways to Peace and Reintegration Program and the FRIENDS Project for Peace and Livelihood led by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity.
More than 280 residents joined the event, including 203 beneficiaries and representatives from 18 government agencies and one private group. The program aimed to support former rebels through a taro farming livelihood initiative and strengthen access to public services in the community.
The Provincial Agriculture Office explained modern planting methods and distributed vegetable seedlings and fertilizers. The Department of Agriculture provided crop seedlings, consultations, and pest management assistance, while the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation held on-site enrollment for farmers.
The Department of Trade and Industry assisted with business name registration, product labeling, pricing guidance, and livelihood tips. The Provincial Legal Office briefed former rebels on legal rights and responsibilities. PhilHealth handled member registration and updates, while the Philippine Statistics Authority provided civil registry and PhilSys ID services.
Uniformed personnel from the Western Command, Philippine Air Force, and Palawan Provincial Police Office distributed slippers, candies, mosquito nets, clothes, and other items for children. The MBLT-11 unit maintained security during the activity. The Brooke’s Point Rural Health Unit distributed vitamins and antibiotics, the Provincial Health Office conducted dental services including tooth extraction, and doctors from the Southern Palawan Provincial Hospital held general check-ups.
Participants later proceeded to the planting site for a symbolic start of the Bangkuka livelihood project.
Officials said the activity demonstrated coordinated efforts to extend government services to remote areas and support reintegration initiatives aimed at sustaining peace and livelihood opportunities in southern Palawan.
