TACLOBAN CITY — As part of the government’s continuing peace and reintegration efforts, 31 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Baybay City have received livelihood assistance aimed at helping them rebuild their lives and sustain income as civilians.
The assistance was extended by the Department of Trade and Industry(DTI)–Leyte in partnership with the Baybay City local government under the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) Program, which supports former rebels by providing capital and livelihood opportunities to help prevent their return to armed conflict.
The beneficiaries are members of the Baybay Integrated Peace and Development Workers Association (IPDWA), composed of former NPA members from the barangays of Cabungaan, Mapgap, Monterico, Amguhan, Ciabu, Maypatag, and Maysapa in Baybay City.
DTI-Leyte said 31 out of the 75 IPDWA members qualified for the assistance after meeting program requirements, including having existing or ongoing livelihood activities. The beneficiaries received livelihood packages focused on hog-raising and rice retailing, which the agency identified as viable and sustainable income sources in the area.
Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos Cari expressed gratitude to DTI-Leyte, headed by Provincial Director Faustino Gayas, as well as the 802nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, for their coordinated efforts in assisting former rebels as they reintegrate into mainstream society.
Gayas emphasized that the assistance, valued at P10,000 per beneficiary, should be treated as a government investment and managed responsibly, noting that DTI personnel will closely monitor the projects.
“The DTI does not just give assistance. After six months, we will visit you because this P10,000 support is a government investment. Its success is in your hands. If you encounter any problems, just go to the Negosyo Center because there are trained business counselors ready to help,” Gayas said.
Meanwhile, Col. Rico Amaro, deputy brigade commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, said government support for former rebels does not end with their surrender, stressing that sustained assistance is crucial to long-term peace and stability.
“This shows that the government continues to care for your welfare,” Amaro said, urging the beneficiaries to become positive examples in their communities by sustaining and growing the livelihood projects provided to them.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
