Claveria, Misamis Oriental — August 2, 2025 — In a bid to promote inclusive economic growth and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to former rebels, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) formally turned over a Php 400,000-worth livelihood package to the Anlag Ani Tapukanan Consumers Cooperative through its Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP).
The ceremonial turnover, held on July 31 at the cooperative’s site in Claveria, Misamis Oriental, marks a significant step in supporting reintegration efforts for former rebels who surrendered under the 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion of the Philippine Army.
The livelihood grant will fund a community-based “Bigasan Project,” seen as a practical and income-generating venture for the cooperative members.
Leading the turnover was DOLE Misamis Oriental Livelihood Focal Person Mr. Tyron Cervañez. The event was also attended by Lieutenant Colonel Leoncito I. Grezula Jr., Battalion Commander of the 58th IB; Hon. Noel Mofos, Sangguniang Bayan Member and Chairperson of the Committee on Livelihood; Ms. Carolyn Ovillio, PESO Manager of LGU Claveria; and Mr. Paul Balani, Area Manager of KAMADA ARC Cooperative.
As part of the activity, Mr. Balani facilitated a financial literacy session to equip cooperative members with essential skills in managing and sustaining their new business.
Lt. Col. Grezula expressed appreciation to DOLE and the LGU, underscoring the importance of collaborative programs in peace-building. “This livelihood program for our former rebels stands as a testament that the government will not abandon those who voluntarily surrender,” he said. “We hope this inspires those still in the armed struggle to return to the fold of the law.”
Hon. Mofos also extended gratitude on behalf of the LGU. “Kami sa Local Government Unit sa Claveria nagpasalamat usab sa DOLE-Misamis Oriental sa gihatag nga suporta para sa Anlag Ani Tapukanan Consumers Cooperative. Kami kanunay nga magsuporta alang sa kalamboan sa livelihood project sa atong mga former rebels,” he said.
Mr. Cervañez, meanwhile, encouraged the beneficiaries to fully commit to the project. “Unta magsilbi kini nga sinugdanan sa paglambo sa inyong panginabuhi. Kami sa DOLE Misamis Oriental naghangyo kaninyo nga magmalampuson niini nga proyekto alang sa inyong kooperatiba ug alang usab sa kalamboan sa inyong tagsa-tagsa ka kinabuhi,” he told the members.
The project exemplifies the government’s whole-of-nation approach to peace and development, aiming to uplift the lives of marginalized and vulnerable groups through meaningful and sustainable support.