Keanu Aebramh G. Costales
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – As initial financial assistance from the provincial government, Governor Dennis ‘Delta’ Pineda handed at least P675,000 or P15,000 each to 45 rebel returnees, formerly involved in legal front organizations of the Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) special “White Area” who voluntarily surrendered to the government.
The former rebels who came from Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Bataan, Aurora and Nueva Ecija were presented to Governor Pineda and Vice Governor Lilia ‘Nanay’ Pineda by Regional Director Police Brigadier General Rhodel Sermonia and Provincial Director Police Colonel Jean Fajardo on Monday, November 11.
Police Brigadier General Sermonia explained that rebels from white areas do not own firearms; however, they are involved in legal front groups which aim to tarnish the government’s reputation.
The governor also pledged that the former rebels may enjoy the programs and services offered by the provincial government and other government agencies such as medical and educational assistance.
In addition, he told them, “Kung wala rin kayong pupuntahan sa probinsya ninyo at wala kayong magiging trabaho, try niyong lumapit sa amin.”
Aside from that, the surrenderees are also entitled to receive cash assistance through the Enhanced – Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
According to Myrvi Apostol-Fabia, Department of Local and Interior Government (DILG) provincial director, the surrenderees will be initially given P15, 000 each to start afresh.
Fabia added that they shall receive another P50, 000 as livelihood assistance after getting clearance from the Joint Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police Intelligence Committee (JAPIC).
DILG will also help the former rebels get postal and valid IDS by facilitating their birth and marriage registration.
Meanwhile, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will offer training and skills programs to help the rebel-returnees in seeking jobs and employment, according to TESDA Provincial Director Jaime Castillo.
