SEN. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go is urging the government to continue providing and enhancing initiatives aimed at encouraging and assisting rebel returnees in reintegrating into mainstream society. This call comes in the wake of a clash between government troops and suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Bukidnon, which resulted in the death of nine insurgents, including three women.
The clash in Malaybalay City occurred shortly after the communist group declared a two-day unilateral ceasefire on Christmas Day. Senator Go emphasizes the critical need to strengthen programs like the Balik-Loob Program, which operates under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac).
The Balik-Loob Program, officially known as the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), is a crucial initiative of the Philippine government. It is managed by Task Force Balik-Loob (TFBL) and recognizes the significant role played by the Armed Forces of the Philippines in positively impacting the lives of former rebels.
Established through Administrative Order (AO) 10 in 2018, during the administration of former president Rodrigo Duterte, the TFBL serves as the central coordinating body for the government’s reintegration efforts for members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), including their immediate families.
One notable aspect of the Balik-Loob Program is the Balik-Loob Lending Program, a credit facility offered by LandBank. This loan program is a key benefit of the E-CLIP and is designed to assist former rebels in starting or expanding their businesses, thereby facilitating their smooth transition back into civilian life.
Senator Go highlights the importance of enhancing the capabilities and reach of the NTF-Elcac to foster development in areas affected by the insurgency. He believes that by accelerating development, the underlying conditions of poverty that often fuel support for rebel groups can be effectively addressed, thereby reducing their influence.
Furthermore, the senator emphasizes that the government’s focus on programs that facilitate the return of rebels to mainstream society aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable path towards peace. He cites the example of Paquibato, Lumian in Davao City, where development has already taken root, thanks to the strengthening of the NTF-Elcac.
Senator Go encourages support for the NTF-Elcac and the government’s Balik-Loob program. He believes that by doing so, interested individuals who wish to return to the fold of the law will be provided with a new sense of hope and opportunity.
In conclusion, Senator Bong Go calls for the continued provision and enhancement of government initiatives, such as the Balik-Loob Program, to encourage and aid rebel returnees in reintegrating into mainstream society. By strengthening the NTF-Elcac and focusing on programs that facilitate their return, the government aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable path towards peace.
Source: The Manila Times
