DOLE's support reaches nearly 10,000 former NPA rebels in successful reintegration efforts

03 May, 2024

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has achieved remarkable success in supporting the reintegration of former rebels into society, with nearly 10,000 individuals and their families benefiting from the department's livelihood and employment programs.

During a virtual press conference on April 30, 2024, Labor Undersecretary Benjo Santos M. Benavidez underscored DOLE's dedication to providing opportunities for former combatants to establish sustainable sources of income and transition successfully to civilian life.

"Our department is committed to advancing the welfare of our fellow workers who are former rebels or those currently in rebellion," stated Benavidez, emphasizing the significance of the livelihood program inhelping individuals secure permanent income through entrepreneurship.

Through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay Para sa ating mga Disadvantage Workers (TUPAD) program, DOLE has allocated resources to support the employment of former rebels, demonstrating a commitment to fostering economic stability and social inclusion within this group. This initiative has played a crucial role in offering emergency employment opportunities and livelihood projects to facilitate their seamless reintegration.

Noteworthy is the fact that over 6,100 former rebels have already benefited from livelihood assistance, with CARAGA, Region 9, and Region 11 standing out as key regions with a significant number of beneficiaries, highlighting the extensive impact of DOLE's reintegration endeavors.

"In CARAGA, we have assisted over a thousand individuals, while in Regions 9 and 11, we have supported close to 900 beneficiaries," shared Benavidez.

"Through our TUPAD program, we have provided emergency employment to almost 10,000 former rebels. Despite the substantial investment required, DOLE remains unwavering in its commitment to further assist our fellow citizens who have returned to the fold of the government," he emphasized.

As DOLE continues its mission to empower former rebels in their journey towards stable civilian lives, Benavidez reiterated the department's steadfast commitment to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for all individuals.

Additionally, Director Jose A. Descallar of NTF-ELCAC highlighted the enduring relevance of the Labor Code on its 50th anniversary, stressing its pivotal role in upholding industrial peace and fosteringeconomic growth and poverty alleviation.

In commemorating this milestone, Descallar reinforces the need to uphold labor laws for economic advancement and social fairness, highlighting the code's critical role in promoting a prosperous and just society.

The government's proactive initiatives in offering livelihood opportunities, employment support, and aiding the reintegration of former rebels not only enhance economic stability and social inclusivity but also showcase the administration's unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and cultivating a more prosperous and harmonious society.###

NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Joel M. Sy Egco

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