By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD CITY—A total of 25 former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels became the first participants in a deradicalization program launched by the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) committee in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, on November 22.
The beneficiaries included 17 former rebels from the Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion (11th IB) and eight from the 62nd IB.
The 23-day deradicalization program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at helping participants reject NPA ideology and develop a deeper understanding of the government’s role in fostering peace and development, according to the 302nd Infantry Brigade (IBde).
Lt. Col. J-jay Javines, spokesperson for the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID), said participants will engage in activities for personal growth and receive psycho-social interventions.
The program also provides access to livelihood opportunities, facilitated by various government agencies under the E-CLIP committee’s reintegration strategy.
These livelihood initiatives aim to equip former rebels with resources for long-term economic stability.
The 302nd IBde emphasized that the program is not only about reintegration but also reflects a strong commitment to peace and sustainable development.
The Army commended the former rebels for their bravery in choosing a new path.
“We stand with you as you take the first steps toward rebuilding your lives and contributing to the progress of our communities,” the Army said in a statement.
