In a significant move towards peace and reintegration, 102 former rebels from the Samar provinces were provided with PHP4.56 million in financial assistance by their local governments. The Philippine Army announced this development on Tuesday, highlighting the efforts of the Samar and Northern Samar provincial governments in supporting former insurgents.
The majority of the beneficiaries, 74 in total, hail from or were active in Samar, while the remaining 28 are from Northern Samar. The Samar provincial government allocated PHP3.44 million, and Northern Samar contributed PHP1.12 million to the cause.
The aid was distributed across various towns including Basey, Calbiga, Hinabangan, Jiabong, Matuguinao, Motiong, Marabut, Pinabacdao, Paranas, San Jorge, and Villareal in Samar, as well as Dolores in Eastern Samar and Las Navas in Northern Samar. The distribution event on Monday was overseen by Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan, with support from the Philippine Army’s 801st Brigade deputy commander Col. Carmelito Pangatunan and Department of Interior and Local Government provincial director Judy Batulan.
Governor Tan stressed the significance of the program in aiding former rebels to reintegrate into society and start anew. She expressed gratitude towards the former rebels for choosing peace over conflict and cooperating with the government.
In Northern Samar, the recipients are currently housed at Balay Darangpan, a halfway house set up by the provincial government to assist former rebels. This facility not only provides temporary shelter but also supports them through the reintegration process with financial aid, literacy and livelihood training, firearm remuneration, and other social services.
Each of the 28 former rebels from Northern Samar received PHP40,000 in immediate and livelihood assistance under the Local Social Integration Program. The distribution was led by Northern Samar Vice Governor Clarence Dato and attended by officials from various sectors including the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the provincial legal office, police, military, and religious leaders.
The provincial government of Northern Samar aims to foster peace and stability in the region by helping former rebels transition into productive members of society.