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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider SAP Lagdameo reaffirms gov't commitment to end armed conflict

SAP Lagdameo reaffirms gov't commitment to end armed conflict

Published Feb 6, 2025 11:50 am

Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Anton Lagdameo Jr. on Thursday, Feb. 6, reaffirmed the government's commitment to end local communist armed conflict following the surrender of some 232 former rebels of the New People’s Army (NPA).

The official, who was in Davao de Oro for the event, asked other rebels to also voluntarily surrender.

"Hindi lang ito tungkol sa pagsuko ng armas, kundi isang panibagong simula, isang bagong pag-asa para sa mga handang magbagong-buhay (This is not about the surrender of arms, but it’s about a new start, a new hope for those who are ready for a new life),” Lagdameo said in a speech.

He also underscored the significance of the event, emphasizing the government’s ongoing efforts to end the local communist armed conflict and reintegrate former rebels into mainstream society.

The former rebels voluntarily surrendered and are set to undergo the government’s reintegration program.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. shared that the NPA has drastically declined in strength as their number dwindled from 2,200 in 2023 to 1,111 in 2024.

As part of their surrender, the former rebels received food packs and kitchen kits from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and P5,000 in financial assistance from the Office of the President (OP), in addition to local support from various provincial officials.

They will also be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which will guide them through reintegration.

Lagdameo expressed hope that more rebels would be inspired to follow their comrades. He called on them to seize the opportunity to change and have new lives.

"Sa lahat ng sumuko at pinili ang kapayapaan, saludo kami sa inyong tapang at sa inyong desisyong baguhin ang inyong buhay (To all who surrendered and chose peace, we salute your bravery and your decision to change your lives),” he said.

“Ang ginawa ninyo ngayon ay inspirasyon para sa iba upang sumunod sa inyong yapak (What you did now is an inspiration to others to follow your steps),” the official added.

Military officers and local chief executives, including Bukidnon Gov. Rogelio Neil Roque and Davao Occidental Gov. Franklin Bautista, a lawyer, also attended the event.

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New People's Army armed conflict Antonio Lagdameo Special Assistant to the President
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