TUBOD, Lanao del Norte — Four former violent extremists from the Dawlah-Islamiya Maute Group and the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa sa Mindanao–Revolutionary People’s Army (RPMM-RPA) have received P50,000 each in financial assistance from the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte as part of their reintegration under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). The distribution was held on December 9, 2025, marking another step in the province’s continuing effort to help former rebels transition to peaceful, productive civilian life.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Anabelle Mendez underscored the province’s unwavering commitment to supporting surrenderers, emphasizing that even modest assistance can be a lifeline for families seeking to start over. “Kaning P50,000 gamay ra kaayo ni, but I hope makatabang gyud ni sa inyohang pamilya ug sa inyong kaugalingon nga magsugod ug magbag-o kauban namo diri sa probinsya,” Mendez said, encouraging others who still wish to surrender to approach authorities.
The beneficiaries underwent validation by the Philippine National Police and the 44th Infantry Battalion, whose personnel also assisted in the turnover. Security officials reiterated that peaceful surrender remains the safest and most responsible path for individuals still involved with armed groups. “Bisan kami mga kasundalohan, gusto nami maundang ug mahuman na ang insurgency diri sa Pilipinas kay gusto nami mag-focus sa external defense,” said Staff Sgt. Regis of the 44th IB.
One of the beneficiaries, identified as Alias “Rex,” shared that his decision to abandon the armed struggle came after years of hardship and persistent pleas from his family. “Ang naka-awhag sa ako nga mo-surrender mao akong pamilya, ginikanan ug igsoon. Sa pipila ka tuig nga gapa-ulipon ko sa mangitngit nga dalan sa armadong pwersa sa New People’s Army, wala gyuy kahayag nga akong nakita,” he recounted.
The provincial government assured that reintegration support will continue for former rebels seeking a fresh start, urging those still in hiding to surrender so they can access proper guidance and build lawful, sustainable livelihoods. Authorities stressed that peace and security in the province are achievable when former combatants choose the path back to society and work with government partners to restore normalcy in their communities.