THE City Government of Davao, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), has reaffirmed its dedication to reintegrating former rebels into society through continued support under the Kalinaw Village program.
Kalinaw Village serves as a halfway home and safe space for former insurgents immediately after their surrender. The facility provides a holistic approach to reintegration, addressing physical, mental, and spiritual needs while equipping individuals with the skills necessary for a new start.
Claudette Ivy Duero-Matarong, Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip) coordinator, shared on Davao City Disaster Radio that 22 former rebels are set to be accommodated at the facility. Since its launch in February 2021, Kalinaw Village has served around 130 former rebels, helping them rebuild their lives and rejoin their communities.
Services offered include psychosocial and medical support, livelihood assistance, and skills training. Duero-Matarong emphasized the importance of livelihood aid as a core component of E-Clip.
"Isa man gud sa ginahatag sa E-Clip program is ang livelihood. At least makabalo sila unsaon nila maka-provide sa family. Mahatagan pod sila’g basic business management training or orientation para kabalo sila unsaon pagdumala sa ilahang income (One of the key forms of assistance provided under the E-CLIP program is livelihood support. This helps beneficiaries learn how to provide for their families. They also receive basic business management training or orientation so they know how to handle and manage their income)," she said, explaining how the program equips them with the skills to sustain a stable livelihood.
Beneficiaries typically stay at Kalinaw Village for three to six months, receiving full support during their transition. The program welcomes former rebels from across the country, underscoring Davao City's compassionate approach to resolving insurgency through rehabilitation and empowerment.
Education is also part of the reintegration process. Kalinaw Village has partnered with the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (ALS) to offer educational opportunities to both youth and adults, alongside spiritual and religious interventions.
The CSWDO and its partner agencies remain committed to creating sustainable paths for former rebels, making Kalinaw Village a model for peacebuilding and reintegration.
In 2022, Davao City was officially declared insurgency-free by the national government—a milestone achieved through years of cooperation among local government units, the military, and law enforcement.
The declaration followed the assessment that no active insurgent groups remained in the city. This success is attributed to strong security measures, community-led peace programs, and inclusive socio-economic initiatives. Kalinaw Village plays a key role in this effort, addressing the root causes of insurgency by giving former rebels the tools to lead peaceful, productive lives.
The city’s peace strategy includes investments in infrastructure, education, and livelihood, all of which help reduce poverty and social inequality—factors often fuel insurgency. Active community involvement has also helped Davao City maintain its reputation as a safe and secure place to live, work, and raise families. DEF
