By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD CITY – Eight former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels received financial assistance from the Sagay City government in Negros Occidental on Tuesday.
Sagay Mayor Narciso Javelosa, chairperson of the Sagay City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), led the distribution of cash and food assistance at the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) headquarters in Barangay Bato, Sagay City.
According to the 79th IB, the recipients recently surrendered to the military. The financial aid aims to help the former rebels reintegrate into society by providing the resources needed to start anew and contribute to community development.
“This assistance not only supports their immediate needs but also symbolizes renewed hope for a dignified life as reintegrated citizens,” the Army stated.
Mayor Javelosa commended the ex-rebels for their courageous decision to surrender and reaffirmed Sagay City’s commitment to supporting those who choose to leave the armed struggle.
“This act of surrender is not only a step toward personal peace but also a significant contribution to the collective peace and progress of Northern Negros,” the mayor emphasized.
Lieutenant Colonel Arnel Calaoagan, 79th IB commander, expressed gratitude to the local governments of Sagay and Escalante City, as well as other stakeholders, for their continuous support. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing insurgency and assisting former rebels in rebuilding their lives.
The 79th IB said this initiative sends a strong message to those still engaged in armed conflict to abandon violence and choose peace as a path forward.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed call for peace, as local officials, military personnel, and police reiterated their commitment to assisting former rebels in their journey toward a better future.
