DILG, Zambo Sibugay build P5-M halfway house for ex-NPAs
By Teofilo Garcia, Jr. / Philippine News Agency
ZAMBOANGA CITY – The government has completed the construction of the PHP5-million halfway house that would serve as a temporary shelter for former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Zamboanga Sibugay province.
Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, said the halfway house that was inaugurated Tuesday in Ipil town is a joint project of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the provincial government of Zamboanga Sibugay.
“The establishment will serve as a temporary housing facility for former (NPA) rebels from the province who returned to the folds of law as they undergo transformational psycho-social recovery before they are reintegrated to the mainstream society,” Nicolas said Wednesday.
During the inauguration, Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Wilter Palma encouraged the former NPA rebels to continue supporting the government's plans and programs to end the local communist insurgency.
“Without peace, there will be no development. In this administration, we have witnessed the interventions provided by the national government,” Palma said. “Let us help each other so that we can slowly assist you to stand on your own feet again."
Palma said the facility would also serve as the training facility for livelihood programs, education, and skills enhancement, which is part of the packages under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
Thirteen former NPA rebels and 20 rebel militiamen witnessed the inauguration. (PNA)