LUNA, Apayao – The provincial government, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), extended PhP 440,000 in livelihood assistance to 22 former rebels under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
The distribution was held on May 30, 2025, at the Provincial Government Center Conference Hall in San Isidro Sur, this town.
Each beneficiary received PhP20,000 to support their proposed agricultural ventures, following assessments conducted by the PSWDO. The financial assistance was awarded by Provincial Administrator Arnold Castillo, Acting Provincial Treasurer Wilma Ikitan, Social Welfare Officers Leeshel Lopez, Premadona Salazar, and Olibeth Vidad, along with MSWDO representatives from Luna and Flora, and a representative from the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The Apayao Friends Rescued Agricultural Cooperative (AFRA), which includes all 22 recipients among its 41 members, will allot PhP10,000 per member as a cooperative share for their farming initiatives. A separate meeting was held after the awarding to align PSWDO, MSWDOs, and PNP with AFRA’s operational plans.
In his message, Provincial Administrator Castillo reiterated the provincial government’s continued support for reintegrated individuals, citing the administration’s vision—shared by Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr. and Congresswoman Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang—of building an inclusive and peaceful Apayao. He emphasized the importance of cooperation and shared responsibility in sustaining peace and development.
Dandy Balangat, president of the Municipal Federation of Former Rebels in Luna and Calanasan, thanked the government for its assistance. He said that the support is a huge help in rebuilding their lives but also highlights their commitment to maintaining peace in the province. By Krizza Castillo
