KORONADAL CITY — Four people’s organizations composed of former members of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) received a total of ₱1.2 million in livelihood assistance during a ceremonial awarding held at the Provincial Capitol in Koronadal City, earlier this week.
The ceremony marked the distribution of checks and certificates of accreditation under the government’s Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan Program or PAMANA Livelihood Program.
Each organization received ₱300,000 to support livelihood initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable income and improving economic conditions.
The beneficiaries were organized with the assistance of the 2nd SCPMFC, which pioneered the establishment of such groups within the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the SOCSKSARGEN region.
The initiative forms part of broader government efforts to promote inclusive development in conflict-affected communities. By providing economic opportunities, the program seeks to help former rebels reintegrate into society, reduce the likelihood of their return to armed conflict, and strengthen long-term peace and stability.
Officials emphasized that empowering former CTG members through livelihood support not only improves individual well-being but also contributes to community resilience and economic self-sufficiency across South Cotabato.
The event was attended by personnel from the 2nd South Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd SCPMFC), led by PLTCOL Roel Vergel G. Parreño under the supervision of PCOL Samuel T. Cadungon, Provincial Director.
Also present were key officials including representative of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., OIC-Provincial Administrator Atty. Renette B. Bergado, representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office XII led by Regional Director Loreto V. Cabaya Jr., the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, various Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
