THE LOCAL government unit (LGU) of Valencia City, in partnership with the 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion and the Philippine National Police, formally provided financial assistance to 39 former rebels on Monday.
The turnover ceremony, led by Mayor Amie Galario, took place on Aug. 11, 2025, and saw each beneficiary receive ₱10,000 in cash from LGU-Valencia.
The total amount of ₱390,000 serves as a local counterpart to the national government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), aiming to help the returnees rebuild their lives and secure sustainable livelihoods after years of armed conflict.
Adding to the significance of the event, the former rebels also formally surrendered 25 assorted firearms.
This act further demonstrates their full commitment to abandoning armed struggle and embracing peaceful reintegration into society.
The beneficiaries came from various barangays within the city, with the largest group of 26 individuals hailing from Barangay Banlag.
Other recipients were from Barangays Concepcion (4), Sinayawan (3), Sinabuagan (2), and one each from Dagatkidavao, Lumbo, Lumbayao, and Mabuhay. One of the returnees, known only by the alias “Nokins,” expressed profound gratitude to the government and the Philippine Army.
He spoke of the opportunity to start anew after facing years of hardship and uncertainty.
Key officials present at the ceremony included Vice Mayor Greizl Galario-Fernandez, former Mayor Jun Galario, City Local Government Operations Officer Jan Eric Manasan, and several Department Heads.
The military was represented by Lieutenant Colonel Antonio G. Bulao I, Commanding Officer of the 89th IB, and First Lieutenant John Andrew Gloriani, Alpha Company Commander.
Councilor Rolando Centillas, chairman of the committee on peace and order, was also in attendance.
Lieutenant Colonel Bulao I reiterated the Philippine Army’s dedication to maintaining peace and security in the region.
He emphasized that the Army will continue to collaborate with LGUs and other stakeholders to ensure that former rebels are fully and successfully reintegrated into mainstream society.
Photo courtesy of 89IB
