At least 15 rebel returnees will become pilot beneficiaries of the localized Social Integration Program (SIP) as initiated by the provincial government of Negros Oriental.
Governor Roel Degamo has issued Executive Order number 19 creating the ad hoc committee on the creation of the localized SIP in Negros Oriental headed by the private sector and supported by non-government organizations, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Degamo gave his full support to the program because it will compliment with the programs and projects in maintaining the peace and order in Negros Oriental. He has assured the committee of sufficient funds to provide for the immediate needs of the rebel returnees.
The committee is now preparing the documents of the 15 pilot rebel returnees after a thorough evaluation.
Governor Degamo said he is hoping that the program will encourage other members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to surrender and avail of the government program.
The committee is very particular with the extent of the participation of rebel returnees in the New People’s Army (NPA). The committee has decided that the cash assistance that will be given to the rebel returnees will be based on their involvement with the NPA.
The funds that will be used for the cash assistance to rebel returnees will be taken from the Assistance to Indigents in Crisis Situation (AICS).