KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Sixteen (16) former rebels formally surrendered to South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. on Tuesday, reaffirming the province’s strong commitment to peace and the people’s renewed trust in the government.
Governor Tamayo welcomed the former rebels at the Provincial Capitol.
He assured them of continued assistance from the provincial government through various interventions such as skills training, livelihood support, housing programs, and other reintegration initiatives.
“Our goal is peace and hope. We will continue working together to ensure that no one is left behind in our programs and that everyone is given the opportunity to start anew,” Governor Tamayo said.
(Ang ating hangarin ay kapayapaan at pag-asa. Patuloy tayong magtutulungan upang matiyak na walang maiiwan sa ating mga programa at lahat ay mabibigyan ng pagkakataong magsimula muli).
Out of the total, nine individuals were recognized as former members of a rebel group, and seven were former violent extremists who had completed the JAPIC validation process.
The surrenderers also handed over several long firearms as a sign of their genuine commitment to reintegrating into peaceful and productive lives.
The governor emphasized that the steady surrender of former rebels reflects the improving peace and order situation in South Cotabato, as well as the trust and compassion that characterize the provincial government’s leadership.
Under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the national government, the surrenderers will also receive initial financial assistance and reintegration support to help them start anew.
Since Governor Tamayo assumed office, a total of 573 former rebels have returned to the fold of the law, underscoring the success of the province’s peace and reintegration efforts.
Governor Tamayo also expressed his gratitude to the 38th Infantry Battalion (38IB) and other law enforcement units for their unwavering dedication in encouraging more rebels to lay down their arms and embrace peace.
“There’s no more reason to fight,” Governor Tamayo stressed.
The programs like free education, free hospitalization, and livelihood support, government services are now reaching everyone, giving every South Cotabateño a fair chance at a better life.
“Peace and progress are our true battles today.”
(Kapayapaan at pag-unlad ang tunay na laban natin ngayon).
