Former rebel says ‘No to ELCAC defund’

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 19, 2021): Former rebel says ‘No to ELCAC defund’ (By Jocelyn Alvarez)

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay, May 19 (PIA) – A former rebel (FR) and farmer in Siay town calls on national government for the continuous implementation of the Barangay Development Program (BDP) as one strategy to end local communist armed conflict in the country.

“Dismaya lang mi pagkadungog namo nga ang ELCAC walaon ang pondo. Luoy kaayo mga tawo nga nanginahanglan pa og tabang sa goberno,” (we were disappointed upon hearing of the call for defund of ELCAC. It’s such a pity for people who still needs the government’s help), says Regite Bonalo, former rebel and president of a farmer’s association in Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay province.

He feels sorry for his comrades and others who are still up in the mountains, citing they could be “snatched” of the opportunity to live a new life should ELCAC defund happen.

“Luoy kaayo mga tawo nga wala pa mi surrender, nga maka avail unta sila sa ELCAC na tabang,” (it’s such a pity for those who have not yet surrendered, their opportunity to avail of help through ELCAC).

Regite recounted how his life made a paradigm shift with the government’s massive intervention as embodied in the E.O 70 or the End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) chaired by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte himself.

“Dako kaayo ang kausaban. Nagpasalamat mi sa gobyerno nga nakadawat mi nila ug cash assistance, livelihood training,”(There is a big change. We are thankful to the government for the cash assistance and livelihood training.)

He said, ELCAC played a big role in his surrender, in his going back to mainstream society.

He attested that government assistance and services were made possible and delivered thru ELCAC, that is why, he, along with his entire family are able to enjoy the benefits brought about by sincere implementation of the programs under ELCAC.

“Gawasnon na mi tungod sa ELCAC,” (We are finally set free, because of ELCAC) he said. (EDT/JPA/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1075616