Ex-rebels receive Kabuhayan Starter Kits

By Masiding Noor Yahya

July 18, 2019

MARAWI CITY: Sixty-four former rebels received Kabuhayan Starter Kits from the combined efforts of the 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade and the Department of Labor and Employment in a civic program held at the brigade’s headquarters on Tuesday.

Former Local Terrorist Group members from Lanao del Sur and Misamis Oriental were aided with farming livelihood grants; six cellular phone accessories business starter kits; 35 rice trading; one package of vulcanizing equipment; and 36 sari-sari store business starter kits.

“We are fulfilling our commitment to the FRs for them to fully reintegrate to the mainstream society,” said Ms. Criste Perpekto, DOLE Supervising Labor and Employment Officer.

According to Alinor Montic, one of the FRs, “Masaya kami at sa pag-uwi namin ay mayroon na kaming panimula sa bagong buhay.”

In his message, 103rd Infantry Brigade commander, Brigadier General Romeo Brawner Jr., said, “Pag nagkita-kita tayo sana ay lumago na ang kabuhayan niyo.”

“Mas masarap mabuhay nang normal at maging partner sa kapayapaan at pag-unlad sa komunidad kung saan kayo nakatira,” added BGen Brawner.

The joint activity of the LGU and the military is part of the government’s peace-building effort to prevent and counter violent extremism.

“I am very much grateful of the overwhelming support of other government agencies in our quest for peace in Western and Central Mindanao,” Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, WestMinCom Commander said.

“We call on the rest of our brothers and sisters who are still contemplating to come out and take advantage of the livelihood programs implemented by the government,” LtGen Sobejana added. (With a story from PIO Western Mindanao Command)