13 former rebels complete de-radicalization training

 From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 7, 2020): 13 former rebels complete de-radicalization training (By Jemin B. Guillermo) 

ILOILO CITY, Oct. 7 (PIA) – A total of 13 former rebels (FRs) completed the four-day Speakers' Team Training (STT) for the De-Radicalization program.

The training was conducted from September 22 to 25 at Camp General Macario B Peralta Jr in Jamindan, Capiz, said Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division’s Public Affair Office chief Major Cenon Pancito III.

He said that of the 13 former rebels, five came from Panay Island and eight were from Negros Island.

“They voluntarily surrendered and underwent a ‘de-radicalization’ program. The STT was organized by the Army's 3ID with the support of People's Advocacy for Collaboration and Empowerment (PeACE), an FR organization,” Pancito said in a press release.

STT aims to educate FR's on the fundamentals of public speaking and encourage them to assist the government in its peace and development initiatives; to capacitate the FRs in their role as third party advocate of the government through training; and contribute in the de-radicalization of FRs and discuss ideological corrections on issues concerning peace.

The training also aims to realign the experience and knowledge of the FRs towards peace and development efforts of the government and enlighten students/youth and other target audience on communist terrorist groups' infiltration through their actual accounts, narrative, and testimonies; and to strengthen the partnership between the PeACE.

On the other hand, Major General Eric Vinoya, 3ID Commander, said that the De-Radicalization Training will prevent the FRs from being lured by communist ideologies again to NPA recruitment.

Vinoya stressed that the training will also help the FRs embrace new lives and succeed in life after choosing the right path of returning to their families and communities.

"Your Army in Western and Central Visayas is here to help and support you as you return to the folds of the law. Start a peaceful life by moving on and embracing what you've learned, he said.

He emphasized that the government is determined in extending its help because it doesn't want anyone to be left behind. (PIA6/DPAO-3ID)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055402