14 ex-rebs get livelihood funds from government

By Maritess B. Beñas

BANGUED, Abra -- Fourteen  more former rebels (FRs) received their checks from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) last week through the members of the Abra Local Integration Committee (ALIC) chaired by Gov. Eustaquio P. Bersamin.

The checks were given in the name of the recipient-FRs from the municipalities of Lacub, Tubo, Sallapadan and Licuan-Baay, amounts ranging from P48,000 to P53,000 each. 

The checks worth P691,260  were intended for livelihood activities of the FRs as they re-integrate into mainstream society.

           

Of the 14 FRs, eight will engage in sari-sari stores with the hope to expand their business. 

           

The rest will venture on livestock industry since they have grazing areas to sustain their economic activity.

           

They can also use their animals in their farming activities.

           

The FRs expressed their  appreciation for the support of the provincial government of Abra in their re-integration into their original communities. 

           

Other agency-members of the ALIC like the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian and the Department of Trade and Industry will continue assisting projects of the recipient-FRs while the Provincial Social Welfare and Development will closely monitor their welfare.

           

Col. Eliseo C. Posadas of the 503rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army assured their support through the 'Kabsatko, Ipategko Program (KIP)' wherein returnees  are adopted by concerned individuals willing to guide  them as they adjust in their new life.

           

The FRs were earlier given  immediate cash assistance by  Bersamin during their formal presentation by the Philippine Army.