TWENTY-FIVE former rebels in Misamis Oriental received P1.6 million cash assistance from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) after they completed their 10-day deradicalization.
The cash assistance was handed over during the Deradicalization Program Closing Ceremony and ECLIP Awarding at the Halfway House, Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office in San Martin, Villanueva, Misamis Oriental on May 24, 2023.
The deradicalization program, which began on May 15, consists of psychosocial activities, such as Knowing-the-Self and Community workshops. It also includes community immersion and team-building to assist former rebels in social transformation and inclusive development.
The 25 former rebels also underwent a seminar on financial literacy and binangkal and taro chip making which were facilitated by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Technical Education And Skills Development Authority, respectively.
This inter-agency program aims to redirect the former rebels' outlook in life and allow them to live normal lives.
During the closing activity, Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia led the awarding and cheque distribution of the ECLIP benefits to the 25 former rebels. Each of them received P65,000 worth of cheques composed of P50,000 worth of livelihood assistance and P15,000 worth of immediate cash assistance.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office also awarded each of them with P5,000 worth of financial assistance as additional support for their reintegration process.
"As you have seen, there is actually a government that is ready to help you. There are a lot of programs in the government you can avail of that could help you earn additional income," Unabia said.
"We hope that you will utilize wisely the financial assistance given to you in order to establish a new life with your family. The government is genuine to help you address your issues and concerns," he added. (SunStar Cagayan de Oro)