Quezon City / Davao Oriental – May 21, 2025 – The Province of Davao Oriental was honored as one of the Best Implementers of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) both in the region and nationwide during the 7th Founding Anniversary of Task Force Balik-Loob held today at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
Receiving the award on behalf of Governor Niño Uy was DILG Provincial Director Orle Cababao, who represented the provincial government in recognition of its strong support and leadership in promoting peace and transformation for former rebels. The award was handed over by Undersecretary for Defense Affairs Angelito De Leon, who also serves as the Chairperson of Task Force Balik-Loob.
Davao Oriental was cited as one of the top-performing local government units (LGUs) due to its active and effective implementation of the E-CLIP program, especially through its operation of the Happy Home, a halfway house providing genuine reintegration opportunities for Former Rebels (FRs). The province also maintains a dynamic and functional E-CLIP Committee focused on delivering real and responsive services.
According to Task Force Balik-Loob, Davao Oriental’s programs have had a significant impact, changing lives and offering new hope to those who have left the armed struggle. Last year, the province also received the prestigious Galing Pook Award for its exemplary practices at Happy Home, which is now recognized at the national level.
In his message, Governor Niño Uy expressed his deep gratitude to Task Force Balik-Loob, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and all sectoral partners working for peace and transformation.
“This award is not just for the Provincial Government, but for every Davaoeño who strives for a more peaceful and harmonious community,” Governor Uy said.
The E-CLIP is a national government initiative that provides a new beginning for former rebels through education, livelihood support, and psychosocial interventions. Davao Oriental continues to show that peace and hope are attainable through unity and genuine concern for the people.
Meanwhile, on May 19, Governor Uy also paid tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Michael G. Yuson, the outgoing Battalion Commander of the 66th Infantry Battalion, during his exit call at the Capitol. As the chairperson of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), Governor Uy thanked Lt. Col. Yuson for his two years of dedicated service, which significantly contributed to the province’s peace and stability.
The governor emphasized that the strong cooperation between the military and local government played a major role in maintaining Davao Oriental’s status as an insurgency-free province. He also acknowledged the military’s vital support in ensuring a peaceful and orderly conduct of the May 12 elections across the province.
Lt. Col. Yuson presented a plaque of appreciation to Governor Uy, recognizing his unwavering support to the military’s peacekeeping efforts. In response, Governor Uy remarked that their shared commitment to public service will serve as an inspiration for future generations to continue serving with love, integrity, and dedication to the people of Davao Oriental.