THE Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) awarded P11.808 million to 251 former rebels through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip) on August 18, 2022 at Kaamulan Folk Arts Theater in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
According to the military report, all of the 251 former rebels received P15,000 as immediate assistance. Moreover, among the said former rebels, 120 of them received P50,000 each as livelihood assistance while 68 for the firearms remuneration.
Bukidnon Governor Rogelio Neil Roque, in his message, said that the turnover of firearms, the release of assistance and firearm remuneration are proof that the "government did not forget to help those individuals who are in need."
"It's been decades since this insurgency started, and today I did not see any reason that we brothers and sisters fought each other for the sake of belief and dignity," Roque said.
Colonel Ted Dumosmog, the officer-in-charge of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, for his part, urged the former rebels to compel their comrades who are still active in the armed struggle in the mountains to surrender and avail the government's E-Clip program.
"As of now, the government is determined to end this local communist armed conflict. We are so grateful that you finally decided to be back to the folds of the law and choose to live peacefully and harmoniously in the community with your families," Dumosmog said.
"May this activity serve as an inspiration to others to avail the E-Clip. Together, we can end insurgency," he added.