DILG distributes P4.3 million cash aid to ex-NPA members in Bukidnon

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) awarded a total of P4.337 million to 77 former members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Bukidnon.

The distribution of cash was conducted on Friday in a program in Camp Osito D. Bahian, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or (E-clip).

The total amount was released as a means of livelihood assistance amounting to P50,000 each; immediate assistance, P15,000 each; reintegration assistance, P21,000 each; and firearm remuneration.

“May this activity serve as an inspiration to those NPA members who want to avail the government’s integration program,” according to Col. Ted Dumosmog, Acting Brigade Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade.

In a related development, eight former members of the NPA and its People’s Militia also received P65,000 each through the E-clip program at the Western Command Training and Transient Facility in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on Friday.

The former rebels have also received financial aid under the Local Social Integration Program of the Provincial Government of Palawan amounting to P25,000 each.

The E-clip aims to urge communist rebels to restore their allegiance to the Philippine government.

—Joshua Go, INQUIRER.net trainee

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