DAVAO ORIENTAL – Former members of the New People’s Army (NPA), now organized under the Davao Oriental Former Rebels Association (DOFRA), paid a courtesy visit to Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang on July 4, 2025, as a show of unity and support for the province’s continuing peace and development efforts.
Accompanied by representatives from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) led by Mr. Oliver Binancilan, the visit signaled a deepening partnership between the provincial government and those who once took up arms, but have since embraced civilian life under the government’s amnesty and reintegration programs.
Referred to as “Friends Rescued” (FRs), the former rebels expressed gratitude for the consistent support of the provincial government under Gov. Dayanghirang’s leadership, particularly in providing livelihood opportunities, legal aid, agricultural training, and housing assistance to help them rebuild their lives.
“We want to contribute to our province, not fight against it,” said DOFRA President Dominador Estrera, a former rebel from a remote barangay in the City of Mati. “This visit is our way of showing we are ready to work together.”
Gov. Dayanghirang, joined by Board Member Rotchie Ravelo and key department heads, warmly welcomed the delegation and highlighted the significance of such collaboration in sustaining peace. “This is a milestone in our peace-building efforts. Your presence here today shows trust in the government and a shared vision for progress,” he said.
The visit comes as the Marcos administration intensifies its efforts to fast-track the reintegration of former rebels through expanded socio-economic programs. In Davao Oriental, these efforts were previously reinforced by initiatives such as the Nagkakaisang Lingkod-bayan ng Davao Oriental – Barangay Outreach Caravan (NLD-BOC), which brought essential services to far-flung communities affected by insurgency.
The continued cooperation between national agencies like OPAPRU and local leaders reflects a growing momentum for inclusive development and peace in historically conflict-affected areas, positioning Davao Oriental as a model of successful reintegration and reconciliation.