CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental (PIA)--Twenty-five former rebels have completed the 10-day deradicalization program and received cash assistance amounting to P1.6 million under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) during the Deradicalization Program Closing Ceremony and ECLIP Awarding at the Halfway House in San Martin, Villanueva.
The program consists of psychosocial activities such as knowing-the-self and community workshops that include community immersion and team-building to assist them in social transformation and inclusive development.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Misamis Oriental and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Misamis Oriental, respectively, also provided financial literacy and livelihood training on binangkal and taro chip making.
Provincial Governor of Misamis Oriental, Peter Unabia, led the ceremonial awarding and check distribution of the ECLIP benefits to the former rebels.
Each of the recipients received P65,000 worth of checks consisting of P50,000 in livelihood assistance, P15,000 in immediate cash assistance, and P5,000 in financial assistance from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office as additional support for their reintegration process.
"As you have seen, there is a government that is ready to help you. There are a lot of programs in the government you can avail of that could help you earn additional income. We hope that you will utilize wisely the financial assistance given to you in order to establish a new life with your family. The government is genuine to help you address your issues and concerns," Unabia said.
He added that the collaborative efforts of the different line agencies, including the military and police, play a vital role in the success of the program. Thus, he urged the participants that they must educate the children that the military and police are not the enemy but partners in peacebuilding.
The unwavering support from the government and partner agencies represents a whole-of-nation approach to achieving inclusive and sustainable peace and development in the province of Misamis Oriental. (58IB/PIA-10/Misamis Oriental)
