KORONADAL CITY, SOUTH COTABATO- Another set of the members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. earlier this week.
In Tamayo’s administration, there at least 60 former rebels who surrendered in the government to avail the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and they see the possibilities of having a normal and comfortable life compare to the armed groups in the mountain.
“Naniniwala na sila na ang kanilang ipinaglalabang serbisyo ay pinaparating na ng gobyerno sa lahat ng sulok ng probinsya” – Gov. Tamayo’s message Tamayo said during his opening statement
These rebel returnees will receive series of Assistance: Firearm Remuneration which depends on the firearm they surrendered; Reintegration Assistance; Immediate and Livelihood Assistance; Financial Assistance; can avail loans; and assistance from the national line agencies.
“Nang bumaba kami upang mag recruit ng mga sasama sa amin, ang sabi ng mga tao: Maayos na ang gobyerno ngayon dahil halos lahat libre na. Ang halimbawa nito ay ang libreng edukasyon, hospital at iba pa. Abot kamay narin namin ang serbisyo ng gobyerno kaya’t wala ng rason para lalabanan pa namin ito. Maraming salamat kay Gobernador Tamayo.” – “Alyas Mak-mak” said, one of the rebel returnees.
Governor Tamayo’s battle cry is to end armed conflict in the province to maintain the peace and order.