Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 802nd Infantry Brigade
Thirty-one former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) received livelihood packages from the Department of Trade and Industry–Leyte (DTI-Leyte) in partnership with the Baybay City local government.
The assistance was provided under DTI’s Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa program, which aims to help former rebels build sustainable sources of income.
The beneficiaries are part of the Baybay Integrated Peace and Development Workers Association (IPDWA), with members from seven barangays in Baybay City.
Of the 75 members, 31 qualified to receive livelihood packages for hog-raising and rice retailing after meeting program requirements, including having ongoing small-scale livelihood activities.
Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos L. Cari thanked DTI-Leyte, led by Provincial Director Faustino Gayas, and the Philippine Army 802nd Infantry Brigade for supporting former rebels’ transition to civilian life.
Gayas said the PHP10,000 aid is a government investment and DTI personnel will monitor the projects, adding that beneficiaries can seek guidance from trained business counselors at the Negosyo Center.
Col. Rico Amaro, deputy commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, said the government continues to care for former rebels and encouraged them to sustain their livelihood projects as positive examples in their communities.