In a momentous ceremony held on August 14, 2018 at the Satellite Office of the Presidential Adviser for Southern Tagalog in Tanauan, Batangas, thirteen (13) Former Rebels (FRs) operating in the Eastern and Western part of Batangas Province returned to the fold of the law and took their oath of allegiance en masse before the Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo M. Ano. They also officially turned-over their firearms to Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana and other top military commanders. For security reasons, the identities of the 13 returnees were withheld as they wore bonnets and caps during the event.
Through the collective effort of the Provincial E-CLIP Committee composed of the DILG, DND, AFP, PNP and the Provincial Government of Batangas, and in partnership with the Presidential Adviser for Southern Tagalog Dennis F. Hernandez, the ceremony also signaled the maiden implementation of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) in the province and in CALABARZON. Under the program, where the surrendering FRs are now officially enrolled, each of the qualified returnee was handed over a PHP65,000 check representing PHP15,000 immediate cash assistance and PHP50,000 livelihood assistance from the DILG. They also received Health Card ID from the Provincial Government as an initial support.
With the aim of facilitating the mainstreaming of FRs to become productive citizens and members of the society, additional assistance such as firearms remuneration, access to housing, employment opportunities, skills training, scholarship for their children, legal and other necessary assistance are in the works. Officials of the DTI, DSWD, TESDA, NHA and DOLE were also present to discuss and coordinate the release of benefits and grant of government projects to help the surrenderers start a new life.
