Deles hails former communist rebels as peace, development partners

From the Daily Tribune (Jun 5): Deles hails former communist rebels as peace, development partners

The President’s peace adviser welcomed last week the return of some 150 former communist rebels to normal, civilian life, and hailed them as peace and development partners in their respective communities at a ceremony in Loreto, Agusan del Sur.

“Nais naming ipaabot ang respeto at pagkilala sa inyong malalim na pagsusuri at malayang pagpapasya na magbalik sa buhay na mapayapa at sibilyan at talikuran ang armadong pakikibaka — hindi dahil naresolba na ang lahat ng problema ng lipunan, ngunit kinikilala na sa dami ng ating problemang kailangan harapin, mas mabuti nga na mag-partner tayo, magtulungan, pag-usapan ang mga problema, at sama-samang maghanap ng solusyon (We wish to extend our respect and recognition for the deep consideration and free decision to return to the peaceful, civilian life, and turn your backs to armed revolution — not because we have already solved all problems in the society, but in recognition that, given the extent of problem that we have to face, it is better to be partners, to help each other, to talk about the problems, and find solutions together),” said Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles.

Also present in the event were Undersecretary Manny Bautista of the Cabinet Cluster on Security, Justice and Peace; Agusan del Sur Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza; Loreto town Mayor Dario Otaza; and other officials from the different agencies, Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The former rebels also surrendered automatic rifles, shotguns and handguns, and stock ammunitions during the program.

Beyond the immediate assistance given, Deles noted that there will be consultations between the former rebels and representatives from the government in the coming days to settle the best means to help them in their return to civilian life.

The said program also coincided with the two-day peace caravan in the barangays of Kauswagan and Manawe meant to address the peace and development issues in Eastern Mindanao, and affirm the administration’s commitment that no conflict-affected communities would be left behind.

Pooling in efforts from the national and local governments, as well as the private sector, the caravan served around 3,000 residents providing medical and dental care, technical and livelihood training, legal consultations, health insurance registration, provision of educational kits, and distribution of certificates of land ownership awards among others.

“Sana ang pagkakataong ito ay mauwi sa isang selebrasyon ng pag-asa — na dito sa pagbabalik loob, sa pagbabago ng pamumuhay, ay talagang makakapanaginip nang muli ng mas magandang kinabukasan, lalung-lalo na sa mga bata at mga sususnod na henerasyon (Hopefully, this opportunity leads to a celebration of hope — that in the change of hearts and way of life can we truly dream again of better days, especially for the children and future generations),” Deles stressed.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/deles-hails-former-communist-rebels-as-peace-development-partners