Lorenzana asks public to support return of rebels to mainstream society

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2021): Lorenzana asks public to support return of rebels to mainstream society (By Susan G. De Leon)

CALOOCAN CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana today pressed for public support for
the government’s anti-insurgency program and give rebels a chance to return to their respective communities and enjoy normal and productive lives with their loved ones.

“These former young rebels can be given another chance to have regular lives, a life where they do not need to run and hide. It’s never too late to have a change of heart and return to the fold of law,” Lorenzana said.

“As long as they are sincere with their intentions, let us welcome these rebels back and laud them for upholding the rule of law. Masaya ako na matapang silang nag-desisyon na magbalik-loob,” he added.

Under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) coordinated by interagency Task Force Balik-Loob, former rebels and former violent extremists are eligible to receive benefits and services from various government agencies to assist them as they return to mainstream
society.

These include financial and livelihood assistance, as well as psycho-social and legal support, among others.

The wide range of benefits under E-CLIP are intended to help former rebels in reintegrating to mainstream society.

Benefits under E-CLIP are based on the needs of the former rebels and their families, including financial assistance, housing, education, skills training, healthcare, legal assistance, and among others through the merging of various national and local government agencies. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067439