Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin ‘Benhur’ Abalos Jr. called on former communist rebels to persuade other members of the New People's Army (NPA) to surrender and avail of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration program (E-CLIP) assistance.
Abalos explained that the E-CLIP provides the rebels with the needed financial assistance in preparation for their reintegration with the mainstream society.
He pointed this out as the government continues its efforts to encourage leftist groups to lay down their arms and go back to the folds of the government.
On Aug. 12, the DILG welcomed 27 former rebels who laid down their arms in Pagadian City and awarded with P3.06-million financial assistance through the DILG-administered E-CLIP.
Of the 27 former rebels, 17 are from Zamboanga del Norte, four from Zamboanga Sibugay and six from Zamboanga del Sur.
A total of 72 turned-in firearms were presented for demilitarization on that day.
E-CLIP is a peacebuilding and social protection program for FRs and Former Violent Extremists (FVEs) who have decided to abandon armed violence, return to the folds of the law, reintegrate to the mainstream society and become productive citizens.
Under E-CLIP, each former rebel receives P15,000 as immediate cash assistance, and P50,000 livelihood assistance as well as remuneration for every firearm they will bring along during their surrender.