THE 39TH Infantry Battalion launched a 15-day deradicalization program for rescued individuals at its headquarters in Barangay Poblacion on Sept. 14, 2026.
Carrying the theme “Uniting for Peace, Transforming for Progress,” the initiative is spearheaded by 39IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Hector A. Estolas.
The program brings together the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and community stakeholders to deliver a structured pathway toward personal transformation, values formation, and skills development.
Designed to directly combat the drivers of violent extremism, the 15-day course features lectures and values-oriented workshops facilitated by the 39IB Deradicalization Team, led by Mr. Belly S. Berana Jr.—himself a former secretary of the dismantled Guerrilla Front ALIP of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Sessions are conducted in partnership with key agencies to equip participants with practical knowledge in responsible citizenship, peaceful conflict resolution, and civic participation.
During the opening ceremony, a broad coalition of security and civil government partners pledged their strong backing for the initiative. Messages of support were delivered by
Luis Caytor, RSW — E-CLIP focal person; Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Cotabato, PLt. Col. Romeo M. Calamba, Police Community Relations officer; Makilala Municipal Councilor Romnick Cabaron; Atty. Noreen M. Napoles, Public Attorney II, Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Kidapawan City; and Florentino R. Villasor, Provincial ELCAC focal person, representing Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza.
Representing the provincial leadership, Villasor commended the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for their steadfast dedication to regional security, emphasizing the vital role that institutional reintegration plays in helping former rebels rebuild secure futures.
A Call for Lasting Change
Expressing profound gratitude to the Provincial Government of Cotabato and partner agencies, Estolas extended special praise to the participants who voluntarily stepped forward to embrace the government’s peace program.
“Your commitment and willingness to embrace positive change are essential in achieving lasting peace, rebuilding your lives, and contributing to the development of your families and communities,” Estolas urged the participants.
The 39th Infantry Battalion reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to collaborating with civil society, law enforcement, and local government units to transition former conflict-affected individuals away from armed struggle and into productive roles within society.
