AID FOR REINTEGRATION. Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson (right) distributes to former rebels their checks during a simple ceremony held at the Capitol Social Hall on Thursday (April 8, 2021). Some 14 former members of CPP-NPA received financial assistance totaling PHP754,000 under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). (Photo courtesy of PIO NegOcc)
BACOLOD CITY – Some 14 former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Negros Occidental were given financial assistance totaling PHP754,000 under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
The recipients, who are residents of the cities of Kabankalan and Talisay, and the towns of Hinoba-an, Cauayan, Isabela, and Ilog, each received a check, representing the reintegration and livelihood assistance, in rites held at the Capitol Social Hall here on Thursday.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson thanked the former rebels (FRs) for choosing peace as he acknowledged the challenges they faced before leaving the communist movement.
“I understand what you went through was not easy, but I assure you that you made the right decision. I hope that more Negrenses in the armed struggle will give up and become our partners for peace and development. In Negros Occidental, peace is possible,” he added.
The governor said although the Covid-19 pandemic remains a threat, the provincial government remains committed to help the FRs improve their quality of life and provide a better future for their children.
Roselyn Quintana, OIC-provincial director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government-Negros Occidental, said through the E-CLIP, the government wants to encourage FRs to return to the fold of the law.
“The program aims to help them return to normal, peaceful life and become productive citizens. May this activity be an inspiration to all of us, especially to our brothers and sisters who have finally found their way home,” she added.
Aside from receiving cash assistance, the beneficiaries also got vegetable seeds from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist; fresh milk from the Provincial Veterinary Office; hygiene kits from the Provincial Health Office; and food packs from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office.
The turnover rites were also witnessed by Col. Michael Samson, acting commander of the Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade; and Col. Romy Palgue, director of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office.
The DILG is the lead agency in the implementation of the E-CLIP, which entitles a former rebel to receive immediate assistance of PHP15,000; livelihood assistance, PHP50,000; firearms remuneration, PHP12,000 to PHP500,000; half-way house assistance; PhilHealth enrollment and medical assistance; education assistance; housing assistance; legal assistance; and healing and reconciliation initiatives. (PNA)
