Give returnees a chance, Lorenzana urges

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Saturday called for more support for the government’s anti-insurgency initiatives, particularly measures reintegrating rebel returnees to mainstream society as he maintained that the public’s acceptance of former enemies of the state is crucial in ensuring lasting peace in the country.

Pointing out every person’s right to second chances and starting on a clean slate, Lorenzana said just like every Filipino, former rebels deserve a chance in returning to the communities to enjoy normal and productive lives with their loved ones.

“These former young rebels can be given another chance to have regular lives, a life where they do not need to run and hide. It’s never too late to have a change of heart and return to the fold of law,” the Defense chief expressed in a statement.

“As long as they are sincere with their intentions, let us welcome these rebels back and laud them for upholding the rule of law. I am happy that they were brave enough to make the decision to surrender,” he added.

Lorenzana particularly cited the Duterte administration’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) in helping rebel returnees start brand new lives away from the armed struggle they were deceived to believe would bring them brighter futures.

Implemented in 2016, the E-CLIP includes livelihood assistance, medical assistance, education, housing and legal assistance.

Said program also works in conjunction with Task Force Balik-Loob, an inter-agency body which screens former rebels and former violent extremists who are eligible to receive benefits and services from various government agencies to assist them as they return to mainstream society. These include financial and livelihood assistance, as well as psycho-social and legal support.