Isabela City, Basilan | May 31, 2025 — In a significant step toward lasting peace and reintegration in Basilan, 144 former violent extremists (FVEs) received livelihood assistance through a community-based initiative led by the Katalingbanong Pamahandi sa Mindanaw Foundation Inc. (KPMFI), with support from the 101st Infantry “Three Red Arrows” Brigade and the Provincial Government of Basilan.
The initiative, part of the AS2G CARE 2.0 program, was spearheaded by KPMFI Executive Director Richard Rejas and aimed to equip former combatants with sustainable means of livelihood tailored to their individual needs. The aid packages distributed included carpentry, welding, and mechanical toolkits; small fishing boats with engines; agricultural supplies; livestock such as goats, chickens, ducks, and carabaos; business starter kits; and sacks of rice.
“This effort is part of a broader program to provide former combatants with economic opportunities that help them become peaceful, productive members of society,” Rejas said.
Brigadier General Alvin Luzon, Commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, highlighted the vital role of livelihood support in the reintegration process. “Reintegration must go beyond disarmament—it must open doors to livelihood, dignity, and hope. Through this partnership, we are planting seeds of peace and productivity,” he stated.
To ensure the smooth distribution of assistance across various communities, the 18th, 32nd, and 45th Infantry Battalions, along with the 4th Special Forces Battalion, took the lead in logistics and coordination on the ground.
The initiative exemplifies the whole-of-nation approach to peacebuilding, demonstrating how collaboration among civil society, the local government, and the military can help former insurgents rebuild their lives and become contributors to community development.