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UNDER the peace agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., former members of the communist group are now availing of the national government’s socioeconomic projects and amnesty program to address legal concerns and return to mainstream society.
Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. led a dialogue with 44 ex-members of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, and the National Democratic Front from regions 10 (Northern Mindanao), 11 (Davao), 12 (Soccsksargen), and 13 (Caraga).
“We are here to fulfill the promise of President [Marcos] and Secretary Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr. to uplift your living conditions,” Galvez said. “Rest assured we will help to rebuild your lives.” The gathering was organized by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (Opapru) with the Armed Forces of the Philippines’s 10th Infantry Division.
These peace conversations align with the Marcos Administration’s Five-Point Peace Agenda. Galvez emphasized the “friends rescued” (FRs) are now “peace advocates.” Opapru will give financial support to eight People’s Organizations (POs) through its Pamana Program. Each PO will receive P500,000 in livelihood funding. TADECO and the Don Antonio O. Floirendo Sr. Foundation committed P2 million for four additional POs.
Livelihood projects proposed include sari-sari stores, banana and coconut trading, poultry production, and agrivet supplies.
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Galvez and Janet Grace Dalisay-Fabrero also turned over safe conduct passes to four FRs to ensure their security as they process amnesty applications.
FR Josie Papasin shared the continued challenges of reintegration and said the amnesty program greatly helps. Norma Capuyan said she left the movement due to her age and desire to reunite with family, moved by the government’s sincerity.
Governor Nelson Dayanghirang encouraged FRs to seek help from Local Government Units and utilize programs like Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation.
Governor Edwin Jubahib said their province provides legal and livelihood support, including a housing project with Opapru and produce purchasing schemes to boost FR incomes.
