Nineteen former communist rebels in Davao de Oro received PHP437,000 in aid under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the Army’s 1001st Brigade (1001Bde) said Wednesday.

In a statement, the 1001Bde said the assistance was provided under the Sustainable Livelihood Project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and distributed in Nabunturan town on Tuesday afternoon.

Each beneficiary received a livelihood grant of PHP23,000 to help in their reintegration into the community.

“The benefit is under the E-CLIP to the livelihood and immediate assistance under the same program,” the 1001Bde said.

A certain Joana, an E-CLIP beneficiary, acknowledged the government for the aid.

“I thank the government, the police, and the military for their programs for the FRs (former rebels). It is a big help in our lives as we return to our respective communities,” she said in the vernacular.

She also promised to continue cooperating with government agencies on counterinsurgency and various social issues.

During the distribution, Allan Tanjusay, DSWD Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace and Special Concern, urged the FRs to use the aid to improve their livelihood.

“Help empower the provincial government so that it can provide more resources and opportunities from different government agencies, which can help the FRs,” he said. (PNA)