Govt, Former Rebs Link Arms for Community Development

October 18, 2024

The government and former rebels have actively collaborated to drive development in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) through a two-day Project Management Planning workshop organized by the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood, and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The workshop, held at Mahogany Hall, El Cielito Hotel in Baguio City, focused on identifying concrete steps to address the specific needs of former rebels in GIDAs. This event facilitated meaningful participation, allowing former rebels to voice their concerns and actively shape solutions for their communities.

Representatives from key government agencies, including the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), National Dairy Authority (NDA), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), participated in the event. Their presence highlighted the broad government commitment to supporting former rebels.

Former rebels (FRs) played a central role in the workshop, sharing their experiences and insights. This collaboration allowed for the design of programs tailored to the challenges faced by their communities, ensuring that solutions were both practical and impactful.

Assistant Secretary James A. Layug, Chair of PRLEC, stressed the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing the complex challenges former rebels face. He highlighted that the success of reintegration programs relies on the synergy between government agencies.

Layug further emphasized that collaboration between the government and former rebels is key to creating the necessary conditions for both the former rebels and their communities to thrive. He pointed out that sustainable solutions are crucial for achieving long-term peace.

The active participation of former rebels also signified their transition from being mere beneficiaries of government programs to becoming active partners in development. This shift ensures that the support provided by government agencies aligns with the former rebels’ aspirations for a better livelihood.

NTF-ELCAC Directors Arnulfo Ferdinand Bajarin and Jose Descallar praised the outcomes of the workshop, noting that it not only empowers former rebels but also strengthens the foundation for lasting peace in GIDAs. They emphasized that government-rebel collaboration is essential for a holistic approach to community development.

This workshop represents a significant step in the government’s ongoing commitment to inclusive development, demonstrating the transformative power of partnerships and cooperation in building peaceful and sustainable communities.

NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Joel M. Sy Egco

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