Davao de Oro — A total of eleven former rebels of the New People’s Army (NPA) completed the 30-day de-radicalization and healing and reconciliation program last week at the Balai Pag-Asa in 1001st Brigade, Maco, Davao de Oro.
The training aims to rid of the twisted doctrines of communism instilled in their minds and prevent them from being lured again by the communist ideologies. Among the activities given are the psychological and psychosocial interventions to help them cope with the difficulties that they faced while still with the rebel movement as well as guide them as they return to the mainstream society.
The program was organized by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Department of Interior and Local Government Unit (DILG) and Provincial Local Government Unit of Davao de Oro.
Meanwhile, the FRs have already received immediate financial assistance amounting to ₱ 10,000 each from the province while waiting to receive the other benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
(Rheafe Hortizano –Provincial Information Office, photos courtesy of PSWDO | OIC Michael Manguhig, RPN DXKT Davao)