As part of the government’s sustained efforts to strengthen peace, promote successful reintegration, and empower communities, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Lanao del Norte facilitated the turnover of Php 260,000 in financial assistance to four (4) former rebels (FRs) and former violent extremists (FVEs) during a turnover ceremony held on August 24, 2026, at the DILG Lanao del Norte LGPRC Conference Room in Tubod.

The assistance was provided under the Department’s continuing implementation of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which seeks to support qualified beneficiaries in their transition from armed involvement toward peaceful, productive, and self-reliant civilian lives.

During his opening message, OIC-Provincial Director Jay Niel C. Añasco emphasized that the assistance should not be viewed merely as an end to the beneficiaries’ past experiences, but rather as a new beginning and an opportunity to rebuild their lives beyond their involvement with armed groups. He encouraged the beneficiaries to make the most of the assistance and embrace the path of peace and reintegration.

A “Panumpa sa Pakig-Unong” was also administered during the activity by peace partners from the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, signifying the beneficiaries’ commitment to peace, unity, and a better future. The oath symbolizes the choice of the FRs and FVEs to embrace peace, rebuild their lives, and reintegrate into their families and communities.

Each beneficiary will receive ₱65,000, consisting of ₱15,000 immediate assistance and ₱50,000 livelihood assistance. This assistance represents not only financial support, but also a concrete opportunity for our Friends Rescued to rebuild their lives and move forward with their families and communities.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), headed by Annabelle S. Mendez, extended food packages and rice assistance to the beneficiaries as part of the government’s support for their reintegration and well-being.

Representing the four beneficiaries, two of the FRs expressed their gratitude to the government for its continued support and assistance throughout their reintegration journey. They shared that returning to civilian life and reconnecting with the government and their communities brought a renewed sense of hope and a different perspective on their future.

The activity was attended by members of the E-CLIP Lanao del Norte Committee, including COL ROMMEL M. PEREÑA, MNSA (ARM), PA, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, and PMAJ ALLANOR P. MENDIR of the Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (LDN PPO), along with other members of the Committee and partner agencies.

Under the E-CLIP, qualified FRs and FVEs may receive Immediate Assistance amounting to ₱15,000.00, Reintegration Assistance amounting to ₱50,000.00, and Firearms Remuneration equivalent to twice the cost valuation of the firearms turned over, subject to existing program guidelines and eligibility requirements.

For the receiving unit, Reintegration Assistance amounting to ₱21,000.00 may also be provided to defray expenses incurred in the custody and care of the FR or FVE while under its custody, in accordance with applicable E-CLIP guidelines. (𝘋𝘐𝘓𝘎 𝘓𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘭 𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘦/𝘑. 𝘈𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘰)