Commitment to Peace Through Financial Support
In a significant step towards nurturing lasting peace in Mindanao, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has extended vital transitory cash assistance to decommissioned combatants (DCs) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
This compassionate initiative underscores the government’s dedication to fostering harmony in the region.
Secretary Gatchalian Leads the Distribution Effort
The distribution of the much-needed cash aid was personally overseen by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian.
The poignant event took place during the resumption of the Phase 3 Decommissioning of MILF members in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte, on a recent Friday. This remarkable effort was highlighted in an official agency news release on Saturday.
A Step Towards Reconciliation
In an inspiring move, each of the decommissioned MILF combatants, who had successfully undergone the decommissioning process by the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB), received PHP100,000.
This meaningful gesture not only acknowledges their commitment to peace but also paves the way for their reintegration into society.
A Phase of Progress
The current phase of decommissioning, initiated in September of the previous year and resumed this August, aims to process approximately 1,301 dedicated MILF combatants within the span of a month.
This strategic effort seeks to create a positive ripple effect, contributing to the broader goal of a peaceful Mindanao.
Financial Assistance in the Spirit of Progress
Aligned with the government’s commitment as outlined in the Annex on Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the provision of financial assistance serves as a cornerstone for the socio-economic development of the DCs and their respective communities. This endeavor signifies a collective step toward nurturing stability and unity.
Secretary Gatchalian’s Uplifting Message
In a heartfelt statement, Secretary Gatchalian emphasized the significance of the event:
“The presence of the ‘Angels in Red Vests’ here today is a demonstration to all of us that the DSWD will continue with our commitment to further improve the peace environment in this part of the region by providing social protection services to our brothers and sisters in the MILF towards nation-building.”
“In return, we hope others will continue to invest and contribute to the peace that further strengthens our nation.”
Engaging in Dialogue for a Better Future
Following the successful distribution of aid, Secretary Gatchalian engaged in an open and empathetic dialogue with several decommissioned combatants from the MILF.
This compassionate effort aimed to better understand their concerns and needs, facilitating a more effective reintegration process.
Collaborative Efforts for Peace
The interaction also saw fruitful discussions with officials from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Secretary Gatchalian revealed,
“We also discussed with BARMM officials ways forward in case management so we can truly extend the proper interventions for reintegration, and also took the opportunity to discuss with them the pilot for the food stamps program.”
A Call for Continued Partnership
Secretary Gatchalian called upon a diverse array of stakeholders, including the DSWD, other government agencies, MILF leaders and members, local government units (LGUs), the military, police, and partner peacebuilders, to persistently invest in and cultivate a peaceful environment in the region.
This collective effort is pivotal for the sustenance of lasting tranquility.
Welcoming Support and Unity
Secretary Gatchalian was warmly received by IDB Chief of Staff Tom Hjertholm and David Diciano, the Presidential Assistant of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), in the assembly processing area of the decommissioning.
Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit essential for such endeavors.
Streamlining Efforts for Positive Change
The DSWD 12 (Soccsksargen) Normalization Team spearheaded the seamless payout and enrollment of beneficiaries through the innovative Biometrics Registration and Verification (BRaVe) System. This streamlined approach optimizes the delivery of aid and ensures the inclusion of deserving recipients.
Toward a Brighter Future
In the coming years, the DSWD, OPAPRU, and IDB, together with various mechanisms of the MILF peace process, will actively extend support to the remaining 14,000 dedicated MILF combatants.
This collective effort serves as a beacon of hope, guiding the region toward a more peaceful and prosperous future.
Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency.
