TACLOBAN CITY – A group of 21 former rebels in Eastern Samar has officially begun operating a rice retailing enterprise after receiving a P500,000 livelihood package from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to support their transition to civilian life.
The livelihood support, facilitated through the 63rd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, was organized under the “Bigasan ng Bayan for Quinapondan, Balangiga, Giporlos Farmers Peace Builders Association.” The assistance aims to provide the beneficiaries with a stable and sustainable source of income.
The package includes 145 sacks of commercial rice, plastic sando bags, weighing scales, rice scoopers, and plastic drum containers—materials that will help the group run its community rice retailing project.
In a statement, the 63rd IB said the initiative demonstrates the government’s continued commitment to helping former rebels rebuild their lives, enabling them to become economically independent and productive members of society while contributing to peace and development in their communities.
The battalion also affirmed its ongoing support for programs that promote community resilience and uplift former rebels across Eastern Samar.
Representatives from DOLE, the local government, and the 63rd IB were present during the turnover ceremony to express support for the beneficiaries’ full reintegration into mainstream society.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
