RENEWAL PROGRAM. Former rebels listen to the lecture given by Capt. Richelle Arambuyong, 903rd Infantry Brigade Civil Military Operation (CMO) officer, during a three-day deradicalization program of the military in Daraga, Albay in this undated photo. At least 50 former rebels from Albay and Sorsogon participated in the activity. (Photo courtesy of 903rd Infantry Brigade)
LEGAZPI CITY – At least 50 former New People's Army (NPA) rebels benefited from a three-day deradicalization program conducted recently by the 903rd Infantry Brigade (903rd IB) of the Philippine Army in Daraga, Albay.
In an interview on Tuesday, Capt. Richelle Arambuyong, 903rd IB Civil Military Operation (CMO) officer, said the deradicalization program is part of the government's efforts to reintegrate individuals previously engaged in armed conflict into the mainstream society.
"The FRs (former rebels) were from Sorsogon and Albay. The activity was conducted to correct the ideologies and doctrines instilled in them," she said.
Arambuyong said the FRs were taught sustainable livelihood opportunities, housing, amnesty programs, and the role of education in preventing future radicalization.
"The initiative provided support and rehabilitation, focusing on skills development, psychological counseling, and community engagement to help former rebels transition into peaceful civilian life," she added.
Arambuyong said after the activity, the FRs returned to their community with livelihood aid and skills training from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and jobs given by the local government unit (LGU) of Sorsogon under the 7K program.
The "7K" is a flagship program of the provincial government that prioritizes Kalikasan (environment) Kalinisan (cleanliness), Kagandahan (tourism and aesthetic), Kadunungan (education), Kalusugan (health), Kabuhayan (economy) and Katrankiluhan (peace and order).
"They (FRs) were also profiled by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for livelihood starter kits. They also filled out for the National Housing Authority provision. Some food packs were also provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)," Arambuyong said.
She said the activity was made possible by the 31st Infantry Battalion and its partner agencies including the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Sorsogon, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the National Amnesty Commission, among others.
In a statement, 903rd Commander Brig. Gen. Jose Ricky Laniog emphasized the importance of collaboration between government agencies, communities, and non-governmental organizations in ensuring the program's success. (PNA)
