• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Philippine Army has assured the security of communities of former rebels, to be established in different areas of Negros Occidental as part of the peace agreement entered between the government and the defunct Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade, and its political wing, Rebolusyonaryong Manggagawa-Pilipinas.
Accompanied by representatives of the Office of the Presidential Assistance on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, Departments of Environment and Natural Resources, Social Welfare and Development, and local government units, the 79th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan recently inspected the designated communities for former members of the defunct RPA-ABB, now known as Kapatiran, and their families, in cities of Cadiz and San Carlos, Negros Occidental.
Calaoagan said the Kapatiran communities will serve as a vital part of the government’s reintegration initiative, providing former rebels with opportunities for livelihood, education, and community development.
The bulk of former RPM-P/RPA/ABB armed combatants and their families are mostly located in Negros Island and portions of Panay island.
Calaoagan said the visits underscores the commitment of the 79IB to ensuring the continuous smooth transition of these individuals into normal, peaceful lives within mainstream society.
“We believe in the importance of second chances. These communities will be a symbol of hope and unity, where former adversaries can live side by side, contributing to a peaceful and prosperous future,” he added.
Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. disclosed that the OPAPRU is in the final stages of implementing socio-economic projects for the Kapatiran, noting that they have already complied about 91 percent of government obligations to them.
Calaoagan said the establishment of the Kapatiran communities is a testament to the success of the government’s peacebuilding efforts, transforming former conflict areas into peaceful, thriving communities.
Another Kapatiran community is located in Brgy. Locutan, Kabankalan City, which had been raided in previous years by New People’s Army rebels.*
