2 ex-rebels get E-CLIP benefits

LEGAZPI CITY – Two former rebels in Camarines Sur province who recently surrendered to the government were given financial aid, a Philippine Army (PA) 9th Infantry Division (9ID) official said on Saturday, Feb 29. Capt. John Paul Belleza, 9ID Public Affairs Office chief said the beneficiaries of cash assistance were alias Mimoy, a former finance officer of Norben Gruta Command; and alias Randy, a commanding officer of Militiang Bayan.

“The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the provincial government of Camarines Sur led the awarding, which was held at the Capitol Convention Center in Pili. Both of them received a livelihood assistance amounting to P50,000 and an immediate assistance amounting to P15,000. Randy, who surrendered a firearm received an additional P60,000 firearm remuneration under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP),” Belleza said.

Belleza said the Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) under Maj. Gen. Fernando Trinidad believed that the snowballing number of surrenderers is a clear manifestation of the effectiveness of the intensified campaign against insurgency.

“JTFB once again called on the Bicolanos to unite and work hand in hand with the government to put an end to the 50-year-old insurgency problem in the country and attain peaceful and sustainable development in the communities,” he said.

Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) ensures that formel rebels can avail of a holistic package of benefits such as livelihood, medical, education, housing, and even legal assistance. (PNA)