TARLAC CITY (PIA) -- Members of the Malayang Magbubukid ng Hacienda Luisita (MALAYA) received P200,000 worth of farm fertilizer supply through the joint effort of  the provincial government of Tarlac and 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion.

The group consists of former rebels and their supporters.

MALAYA Chairperson Florida Sibayan highlighted the impact of the assistance of the government to those who returned to the fold of the law. 

“The government's support and generosity serves as an inspiration to us. The livelihood support and other assistance are great help to our organization. The former rebels who are now members of MALAYA can also witness the efforts of the government to help us have a peaceful and productive life,” Sibayan said. 

She also encouraged the remaining members and supporters of their former group to start anew as advocates of peace and development. 

“I am calling out to the members and supporters of leftist groups to surrender and work with the government for peace. Supporting these groups won’t do you any good,” she stated. 

For her part, Governor Susan Yap vowed to provide necessary livelihood assistance to MALAYA and other people’s organizations in Tarlac.

The government provides various aid under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program wherein rebel returnees and their families are given a wide array of benefits to help them start anew as they are reintegrated to mainstream society. These include scholarships, training and employment. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)