The Provincial Government of Cavite, through the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer spearheaded the Orientation on Handling Former Rebels (FRs) and Former Violent Extremists (FVEs) focused on their rehabilitation and reintegration. The activity also aimed to capacitate the frontline workers to effectively engage with these FRs and FVEs. The two-day event, held on November 23-24, 2023, at The Bayleaf Hotel in General Trias City, gathered key stakeholders to strategize and collaborate on addressing the challenges associated with the reintegration process.
Attended by a diverse group of 50 participants, including representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), academe, local government units (LGUs), former rebels (FRs), and members of the Provincial Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee, the event fostered a collaborative environment to explore comprehensive solutions.
Provincial Administrator for Community Affairs Mr. Alvin Mojica, shared insights on the importance of preparedness in providing social welfare services for rebel returnees and their significant role in achieving holistic peace in the province.
The event featured Informative presentations and discussions covering a spectrum of crucial topics on Legal Framework and Assistance Program. Ms. Lhyrey Vicentino from DILG provided comprehensive insights into Executive Order No. 70, institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, creating a national task force to end local communist armed conflict (NTF-ELCAC), and directing the adoption of a national peace framework; the situation of rebel returnees in CALABARZON region, and the benefits and assistance available through DILG-DND JMC no. 01 Series of 2021 or the โImplementing Guidelines on the Provision of DILG-administered Package of Assistance to Former Rebels (FRs) and Former Violent Extremists (FVEs).
Ms. Elena May Romano of DSWD IV-A delved into the implementation of DSWD programs under EO 70, shedding light on the assistance programs available to former rebels. Mr. Carl Jerome Teodoro facilitated discussions on the Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee, the E-CLIP Information System, and Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning Tool. Ms. Carol B. Nuyda from DSWD discussed the Transformative Justice Framework as a method for working with FRs and FVEs. Effective case management strategies for handling former rebels and violent extremists was discussed by Ms. Blessy Costelo from DSWD IV-A. LT Sean Pelandas of the Philippine Army presented insights into understanding the complexities and dynamics of former rebels, aiming to provide a nuanced perspective. Ms. Maria Aura D. Fuentes highlighted the OPSWDOโs programs and services tailored to support former rebels.
In a compelling orientation session, FRs alias Ka Mimi and Ka Leo, recounted their personal journey as former insurgents and the profound motivation that led them to reintegrate themselves into the government fold. They also shared their transformative experiences, shedding light on their decision to embrace a path toward reconciliation and contribute positively to the community.
The event concluded with reflections and feedback from participants, emphasizing the collaborative efforts and commitment to effective recuperation.
Overall, the event marked a significant step in aligning efforts among various stakeholders toward fostering a supportive environment for the successful reintegration of former rebels and violent extremists into society – OPIO