MAWAB, DAVAO DE ORO – The Marcos administration is fast-tracking the reintegration of former communist rebels through expanded socio-economic support and streamlined amnesty processes.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. recently met with 44 former Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) members from four southern regions, pledging comprehensive government assistance under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Five-Point Peace Agenda.
“We are here to fulfil the promise of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Special Assistant to the President Secretary Antonio Ernesto Floirendo Lagdameo, Jr. to help you and your families to uplift your living conditions,” Galvez told the former rebels, now designated as “Friends Rescued” (FRs).
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) will distribute ₱500,000 each to eight People’s Organizations formed by former rebels for livelihood projects including sari-sari stores, banana and coconut trading, poultry, and agricultural supplies. An additional ₱2 million from Secretary Lagdameo’s Tagum Agricultural Development Company and foundation will support four more organizations.
Galvez and Local Amnesty Board XI Chair Janet Grace Dalisay-Fabrero issued safe conduct passes to four FRs, enabling them to process amnesty applications without arrest fears.
“With these safe conduct passes, you no longer have to look over your shoulder whenever you leave your homes,” Galvez said, emphasizing that “amnesty is the best policy” for completing their transformation.
Former rebels expressed cautious optimism. Jocy Papasin from Davao Oriental praised the legal assistance, while Norma Capuyan from North Cotabato cited family reunification and government sincerity as key factors in her decision to abandon armed struggle.
Local governments are reinforcing national efforts. Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang promoted health assistance programs, while Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib highlighted provincial legal aid, housing projects for indigenous conflict victims, and fair-price agricultural procurement from former rebels.
The comprehensive approach signals the government’s commitment to transforming former insurgents into “peace advocates” and development partners in their communities.
