The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided food assistance to former rebels affiliated with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), National People’s Army (NPA), and National Democratic Front (NDFP) from different urban poor communities in Metro Manila and nearby provinces on April 22.
DSWD Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace and Special Concerns Alan A. Tanjusay spearheaded the distribution of family food packs to some 300 former members of the Zone One Tondo Organization (ZOTO) and Koalisyon ng Maralita (KnM) during the returnee’s oath-taking ceremony and general assembly held at the Munting Nayon covered court in Bagong Silang, Caloocan City.
The former members were based in different relocation sites and areas for demolition in the cities of Caloocan, Manila, and Pasig, as well as in the provinces of Bulacan and Rizal, and were formed to call for the government’s support for their livelihood and settlement.
DSWD Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace and Special Concerns Alan A. Tanjusay leads the distribution of food packs to some 300 former members of groups affiliated with the CPP-NPA-NDFP, Zone One Tondo Organization and Koalisyon ng Maralita, in Caloocan City on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (DSWD Photo)
During the event, Tanjusay extended his gratitude to the returnees for moving back to the government and for working with their group leaders in their reintegration into society.
The DSWD official said the provision of food packs to the former members of groups affiliated with CPP-NPA-NDF was not just a simple turnover of boxes, but it also symbolizes hope among them.
“We hope that you continue to encourage more of our fellow Filipinos to join our cause,” Tanjusay said.
Organized by the Peace and Development Task Force (PDTF), in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine National Police (PNP), the participation of the DSWD in the general assembly of the former members of CPP, NPA, NDF affiliated groups is a milestone partnership between the concerned parties.
PDTF is a non-government organization established by Pastor Joel Algodon, a former member of KnM, to promote peace and encourage those affiliated with and involved in the activities of CCP-NPA-NDF groups to return to the government.