79IB partners with Escalante LGU in strengthening livelihood for ex-rebels

BACOLOD City – The Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion ( 79IB) has partnered with the city government of Escalante i n Negros Occidental i n strengthening the livelihood for former insurgents.

The 79IB, the Escalante city government and the Provincial Veterinary Office recently distributed 200 free range chickens with two sacks of feed pellets to the Escalante Peace Farmers Association, a farmers group formed mostly by former rebels.

The distribution took place in the city’s Barangay Washington on Feb. 7.

According to the 79IB, the activity underscores the importance of multistakeholder partnership reflecting a whole of nation approach towards achieving a meaningful social impact that focuses on strengthening a sustainable livelihood for the ex-rebels.

The collaborative effort ensures that the former i nsurgents receive t he necessary support and guidance to successfully rear and develop a sustainable potential source of income out of a shared commitment to sustain the gains towards community development and social upliftment.

The program also aims to provide essential support to include access to technical expertise, training programs, and mentorship to optimize the potential for success and sustainability of their agricultural ventures.

Lieutenant Colonel Arnel Calaoagan, 79IB commander, said the initiative is in line with the battalion’s broader commitment to be of service not only for the reintegrated citizens, but to the entire people of Negros.

“The 79IB r e mai n s steadfast in its mission to protect, sustain and empower former rebels throughout t h e i r t r a n s f o r m a t i o n , empowering them, assisting and guiding them towards a brighter future with a sustainable source of income such as t his l i velihood program,” Calaoagan said.