21 Former Rebels (FRs) received the checks amounting to Php1.97 million from the Provincial Government of South Cotabato intended for immediate reintegration, livelihood assistance, and firearms remuneration under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).
The formal turn-over ceremony conducted today was witnessed by Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. via zoom, with Provincial Social Welfare Officer Haide D. Agustin, and representatives from the DILG at the Office of the Governor.
Governor Tamayo expressed his delight to the former rebels for returning to the folds of the government.
“Thank you for your trust. We will continue with our efforts to address your problems, let us unite to achieve lasting peace.” Tamayo said.
Out of these former rebels, three (3) received the cash worth Php174,000 as firearms remuneration; 16 FRs received Php 1.37 million or Php86,000 each for immediate reintegration and livelihood assistance; and two (2) received a total of Php422,000 for immediate, reintegration, livelihood and remuneration.
Alyas “Kerker” the youngest among the group said, he joined the movement when he was just 15 years. The second child among the brood of four, he, together with his siblings was promised to be given free education.
” At my young age, I believed in their promises but none of those came into reality.” He said
Now, at 19 years old, under the administration of Governor Tamayo, he went back to the arms of the government and promised never to join the”movement” once again.
“Sa karon, libre naman educasyon kag pagpa ospital, ngaa makigbato pa ko sa gobyerno, kay maayo naman.” He said in his local dialect.
With the Php86,000 received from the government, he plans to use it to start a new life.
“Mabalik ko eskwela kag gamiton ko sa pangabuhian.” He said,
Governor Tamayo in his message encourages these former rebels to invite other members of their group to lay down their arms and join the government.
“Salamat sa pakig-upod sa gobyerno, kag kon may problema, magpalapit lang sa gobyerno. ” Tamayo said,
