27 ex-rebels get veggie seeds, farm tools in Aurora

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 16, 2021): 27 ex-rebels get veggie seeds, farm tools in Aurora (By Jason De Asis)

LIVELIHOOD SUPPORT. At least 27 former members of the communist terrorist group received assorted vegetable seeds and farm tools in Barangay Cozo, Casiguran, Aurora on Thursday (July 15, 2021). The distribution of aid is part of the efforts of the government to provide the former rebels source of livelihood and become productive members of society. (Photo by the Army's 91st IB)

At least 27 former members of the communist terrorist group on Thursday received assorted vegetable seeds and farm tools from the national government as their source of livelihood.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, said in an interview on Friday the distribution of the livelihood support was held in Barangay Cozo, Casiguran.

“The move aims to capacitate and support the former rebels in going back to mainstream society and becoming productive citizens,” Rubio said.

The activity is likewise part of the “Plant, Plant, Plant” campaign of the government through the Department of Agriculture (DA) in line with the whole-of-nation approach to increase food sufficiency level, he added.

“We encourage others to ensure sustained food production and availability, to encourage home-based gardening and even in their farms to produce fresh and healthy food in their backyard among others,” Rubio said.

He cited the need to ensure food productivity, availability, and sufficiency amid the continuing threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

“We are on the move to establish community gardens in the surrenderers’ respective places with vacant areas so they can plant, propagate, and produce the vegetables needed,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1147260