Davao de Oro – The government has again flexed that there’s new hope for every individual linked to the CPP-NPA-NDF as long as they genuinely turn themselves back to the mainstream society.
The government walked the talk once more last Saturday, November 21 after 150 Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) members, an underground community composed of civilians which discreetly support rebels, received essentials from the joint-project of Municipality of Mabini and the 71st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and other support sectors.
These UGMO voluntarily surrendered to the 71st IB and was blessed with a new identity, the People’s Organization.
The 71st IB spearheaded by Battalion Commander LTC. Sonny Gonzales expressed their gratitude by turning over solar panels for the People’s Organization.
The Municipal Office steered by Mayor Reynaldo Dayanghirang also provided food packs for the 150 surrenderees which will undergo a four-day Peace Building Seminar as part of the program.
Davao de Oro 2nd District Congressman Rowell Peter Gonzaga also gave each participant ₱ 1,000 for their allowances as they start their journey towards a dignified life under the government’s supervision.
LTC. Gonzales, meanwhile, vowed to ensure the security of the surrenderees once they will go back to their respective community.
“Magpabilin ang kasundaluhan ilawom sa Community Support Program diha sa ilang mga sityo nga padayon nagapatrolya,” Gonzales said.
He also assured that the People’s Organization’s security will be consistent with the reinforcement of the Revitalized Police Barangay Program of the Police Regional Office 11.
The program is just another example of the government’s sincerity in helping individuals who finally saw the light outside the umbrella of CPP-NPA-NDF.
(Adz Morrell-TROPA Mindanao | OIC Michael Manguhig, RPN DXKT Davao)