Former rebels get livelihood projects, social protection packages

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 13, 2020): Former rebels get livelihood projects, social protection packages (By Pilar S. Mabaquiao)

SAN JOSE, Antique, Oct. 12 (PIA) - - The former rebels (FRs) who have returned to the folds of the law were given livelihood projects and social protection packages by various government agencies.

The 20 FRs are under the care of the Philippine National Police Regional Intelligence Group 6 while the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) is still on process.

Antique Consultant on Peace and Order and Public Safety Margie L. Gadian emphasized the commitment of the Provincial Government here and other government agencies as well to ensure that those who have decided to return to the folds of the law will be assisted with their needs so they could return to normal and peaceful life.

The first batch of 11 FRs already availed livelihood projects from the Department of Labor and Employment while the remaining nine are still in process.

Most of them opted to venture into livestock (carabao/cattle), swine and poultry raising while others are into sari-sari-store project.

The project for the remaining nine FRs are still in process.

Aside from the livelihood support, they have also received financial assistance from the provincial government and their respective municipalities through their program Aid to Individual in Crisis Situation.

For Social Protection Packages, PhilHealth Antique assured them of their benefits and privileges under the implementation of the Universal Health Care Law.

The Provincial Health Office also assured them of the medical assistance in partnership with the Rural Health Units and District Hospitals where they are located and the Medical Assistance Fund from the Provincial Government and Office of House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda.

During the planning workshop to enlist these FRs to E-CLIP, various government agencies have pledged for additional support to include training programs from Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) so they could earn skills to sustain their livelihood or start a new venture.

The FRs’ Focal Person in response, echoed their appreciation for the services and privileges that they have received from the government that could help them and their families start a new life. (JBG/psm/PIA-Antique)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055806