VIGAN (PIA) — To only lead them back to the folds of the government is “useless”, said Police Brigadier General John C. Chua, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 1, during the recently held “Panangawis”, A Homecoming for Peace for former Communist-Terrorist-Group (CTG) supporters.

The activity was attended by over 200 former allies of the CTG from the different municipalities in the province. 

“It is a good sign that they are back to the folds of the government, but it is useless if they have nothing to do, idleness is the work of evil,” PBGen Chua said.

He further stated that they have to undergo skills training, like that of the programs offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and be provided assistance so they can develop and have a sustainable livelihood.

“We have to help them adjust because we live in an extremely fast-paced environment. They all pledged commitment, they took their oath of allegiance, so that they will not go back to their dark past, these training and activities should continue.

The director said to “not rest on our laurels”, the efforts of the government agencies must continue.

Meanwhile, Second Lieutenant Mae Pearl Agustin, Civil-Military Operations Officer of the 71st Infantry Battalion, 702nd Brigade of the Philippine Army, in her message during the activity said, “Our relationship with the Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office is very harmonious, we always coordinate and conduct meetings to discuss activities we can implement in order to sustain the peace and order in the province.”

She said that the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Army and other law-enforcement agencies, the national government agencies, and the local government units are all working together to sustain peace and order in the communities. (JCR/JPD/ATV, PIA Ilocos Sur)