TACLOBAN CITY — Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Mel Senen Sarmiento visited a housing community for former rebels in Calbiga, Samar, on Aug. 21, underscoring government efforts to sustain their reintegration and promote peace and development in the municipality.
Sarmiento visited the Saad nga Balay Housing Project, a joint initiative of the Samar Provincial Government and the Calbiga Municipal Government that provides housing and socioeconomic support to former rebels and their families.
During the visit, Sarmiento met with local officials, peacebuilders, security sector representatives and former rebels who are now members of the Calbiga Peacebuilders Group.
He also led a listening session to identify areas where the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) could provide additional support to local government and security sector efforts aimed at sustaining the reintegration of former rebels and advancing community development.
Sarmiento also administered the oath of office of the officers of the Saad nga Balay Homeowners Association, led by president Diodario Nablo.
He said the housing project goes beyond providing shelter, describing it as an opportunity for former rebels and their families to rebuild their lives in a peaceful and productive community.
The project is aligned with the Transformation Program Implementation Plan developed by the Samar provincial government in 2023 with assistance from OPAPRU. The plan outlines locally driven programs to strengthen peace and security while addressing the needs of former rebels, their families and communities.
OPAPRU has supported the project through conflict-sensitive and peace-promoting approaches, including beneficiary identification, social preparation and consultations, project communication and monitoring.
The visit was attended by Calbiga Mayor Red Nacario, OPAPRU Director Col. Noly Mapili, Assistant Division Commander BGen. Niceforo Diaz Jr., 801st Infantry Brigade Commander BGen. Arlino Sendaydiego, 63rd Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Ricky Rosalejos, Calbiga Chief of Police Maj. Juan Carlos Recluta and OPAPRU Eastern Visayas Regional Program Manager Imelda Bonifacio, among other local officials and representatives.
Calbiga was declared to have a stable internal peace and security condition (SIPSC) in April 2026.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
