Ang Pahayagan

AURORA-The Provincial Government of Aurora has reached a significant milestone in its peace-building and community development efforts after receiving a PHP5-million check for the construction of a Halfway House for former rebels.

The grant was awarded during the WE STRIVE: E-CLIP National Summit held on November 13–14, 2025, at Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Manila. The funding aims to strengthen the implementation of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), a national initiative that supports former rebels seeking to reintegrate into mainstream society.

Representing Aurora, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Ener P. Cambronero, CESO V, and Ms. Shalom I. Dadero, Social Welfare Officer II of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), formally accepted the check during the summit attended by local executives and national leaders.

The proposed Halfway House will function as a transition facility designed to help former rebels rebuild their lives. Expected services include temporary shelter, psychosocial counseling, livelihood and skills training, and various reintegration support programs facilitated by the provincial government and its partner agencies.

Provincial officials emphasized that the project reflects Aurora’s long-standing commitment to sustaining peace and ensuring inclusive development across communities. They noted that providing former rebels with proper support not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the province’s overall security and social stability.

The initiative also reinforces the collaborative partnership among the Provincial Government of Aurora, the DILG, PSWDO, and other peace and development stakeholders.

With the establishment of the Halfway House, Aurora sends a clear message: peace is achievable, and every Filipino deserves a chance to start anew. (Jason de Asis)

📸Aurora received a PHP5-million grant for the construction of a Halfway House that will support former rebels as they reintegrate into society. This milestone highlights the province’s strong commitment to peace, rehabilitation, and community development. (Jason de Asis)