On separate occasions late last year and early this year, former combatants of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion.
Just recently, these same former rebels received government intervention in the form of cash aid. This goes in line with the “whole of nation of approach,” which seeks to end local communist armed conflict. Notably, The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) plays an important role in this approach.
DSWD Caraga Gives Cash Aid to Ex-rebels
Based on a news report from the Philippine News Agency, 29 former rebels were given intervention from the government in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte, on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
According to DSWD Caraga (DSWD Region 13), the former rebels received cash aid amounting to PHP 10,000 each.
“The provision of financial assistance is aimed to support the integration of the former rebels back to their families and communities,” DSWD Caraga stated.
The cash aid is part of the continuing implementation of Executive Order No. 70, Series of 2018, which is also known as the institutionalization of the “whole of nation” approach to end the local communist armed conflict.
Moreover, DSWD Caraga said that it is also working with other units of the Philippine Army in the region, in order to continue giving support to former rebels.
Meanwhile, in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, around 1,819 residents received PHP 3,000 each through the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program. The cash aid was given during a two-day payout period, which ended on Friday.
Among the AICS beneficiaries, 1,361 came from the municipality of Del Carmen, whereas 458 came from the town of Burgos. The local government also stated that more payout activities are scheduled for the following week.
Final Thoughts
Thanks to government initiatives such as these, former rebels are given the chance to start over and rebuild their lives. Another initiative that’s worth noting is the “Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan” (PAMANA), a national program of the Philippine government that is specifically designed for peace and development, carried out in conflict-affected areas. Do check out this link to learn more about the PAMANA program.