Ang Pahayagan

BALER, Aurora — Former rebels from Aurora and Nueva Ecija convened in a two-day summit in Baler aimed at strengthening reintegration efforts and promoting lasting peace and development in their communities.

The Former Rebels Summit, held at AMCO Beach Resort in Barangay Sabang, gathered former rebels, government agencies, local officials, and other stakeholders under the theme “Strengthening Reintegration and Resilience.” The event highlighted the government’s continued support through livelihood opportunities, social services, and community programs designed to help former rebels rebuild their lives and become productive members of society.

The activity was facilitated by the 91st Infantry Battalion under the supervision of the 703rd Infantry Brigade and formed part of the peace and development initiatives of the Philippine Army. The summit was conceptualized under the leadership of Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, commander of the 7th Infantry Division, as part of the military’s whole-of-nation approach to addressing insurgency by focusing on social healing, economic empowerment, and community transformation.

During the summit, participants joined discussions, training sessions, and planning activities that tackled livelihood and employment opportunities, access to basic services, psychosocial and family support, and strengthening community organizations. The activity also encouraged former rebels to take active roles as advocates of peace within their communities.

In his keynote message, Major General Pasamonte emphasized that lasting peace requires collective effort and sustained support from both government and communities, noting that reintegration programs aim not only to end armed conflict but also to help former rebels rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, commander of the 703rd Infantry Brigade, highlighted the importance of trust, inclusivity, and strong collaboration among stakeholders. He said the summit demonstrates how government agencies, local leaders, and former rebels can work together to achieve long-term peace and development.

Aurora Governor Isidro P. Galban also addressed the participants, emphasizing that peace goes beyond the absence of conflict and must be rooted in justice, opportunity, and compassion.

“Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is the presence of justice. It is the result of opportunities and a society that knows how to accept, forgive, and rebuild the foundations of a new life,” Galban said.

The governor stressed that the provincial government does not see former rebels solely through their past but as citizens capable of contributing to the growth and transformation of society.

“We do not look at them simply as former rebels. We see them as citizens with stories, abilities, and roles to play in shaping our communities,” he added.

Galban described the summit as more than just a government program, calling it a declaration that no one in Aurora will be left behind in the path toward development.

He also highlighted the province’s “Sigla at Galak” governance and development agenda, which focuses on empowering individuals to rebuild their lives and strengthening communities through inclusive programs.

According to the governor, government initiatives supporting former rebels are designed to be long-term and humane, ensuring access to livelihood opportunities, education, and essential services that uphold the dignity of every citizen.

Galban further emphasized the importance of dialogue, open communication, and trust-building among communities to sustain peace and unity.

“Our goal is not only reintegration but transformation—from division to unity, from doubt to trust, and from fear to hope,” he said, encouraging the active participation of communities, local organizations, and various sectors in peacebuilding efforts.

The summit concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to strengthen reintegration initiatives, expand livelihood opportunities, and reinforce community resilience programs in Aurora and neighboring provinces.

Officials from the 703rd Infantry Brigade reiterated their commitment to advancing peacebuilding efforts while ensuring security and development across communities, emphasizing that former rebels remain vital partners in building a peaceful and progressive society. (Jason de Asis)

TOP 📸:  Building Peace, Restoring Lives in Aurora Former rebels from Aurora and Nueva Ecija joined a reintegration summit at AMCO Beach Resort in Baler, reaffirming their commitment to peace, transformation, and inclusive development under government reintegration programs led by the Philippine Army. “From division to unity, from fear to hope”—a renewed journey toward lasting peace. (Jason de Asis)