KORONADAL, SOUTH COTABATO – The Provincial Government of South Cotabato was recognized as the top implementer of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) in the entire Region 12. The award was conferred during the 7th Founding Anniversary celebration of the Department of National Defense held recently at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
The award was personally received by Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia L. Bautista and Atty. Lea Orencio, Attorney IV from the Provincial Legal Office.
E-CLIP is a national government program that aims to assist former rebels who voluntarily surrender and return to the fold of the law, helping them reintegrate into society and start a new life.
According to Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., hundreds of former rebels surrender each year, with the total number of returnees in the province reaching more than 600 to date.
“What’s notable is that even non-residents of South Cotabato choose to surrender here, perhaps because we are able to provide the proper incentives and support they deserve,” Governor Tamayo said.
Among the assistance extended to former rebels are livelihood assistance, reintegration support, firearms remuneration, and cash aid, all of which are intended to help them rebuild their lives.
Governor Tamayo also emphasized that the primary reasons former rebels choose to reintegrate are the services they now receive—services they once fought for in the mountains—including free education, hospitalization, livelihood programs, and agricultural support.
The governor further stated that this recognition is a result of his continued efforts to strengthen all aspects of development in the province, which he believes is key to encouraging former rebels to return to a peaceful and productive life under the government.
