BY VINCE JACOB VISAYA
CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela (November 27)—Twenty-three former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels got a P460,000-worth livelihood package under the Sustainable Livelihood Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Apayao through the assistance of the 17th Infantry Battalion held at the Apayao provincial conference hall in San Isidro, Luna, Apayao on Thursday.
Capt. Rigor Pamittan, 5th Infantry Division public affairs chief and spokesman, said each former rebel got P20,000 in the form of sari-sari (variety) stores and agriculture products.
The rebels also underwent assessments and seminars to help them identify and manage their livelihood.
Liezel Lopez, an E-Clip focal person of the Apayao provincial government, encouraged the rebel returnees to be productive citizens and partners for development following their return to mainstream society.
“We aim to improve your lifestyle through this livelihood assistance. Let us not put to waste the benefits that are given only to you,” Lt.Col. Oliver Logan, 17th Infantry Battalion commander, said.