50 Former NPA Rebels Presented to Acting PNP Chief in Butuan Ceremony
In a significant development for peace and order in the Caraga region, the Police Regional Office 13 (PRO-13) formally presented 50 former New People's Army (NPA) rebels, now classified as "friends rescued" (FR), to acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief PLt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. The presentation took place during General Nartatez's command visit to Camp Rafael Rodriguez in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, on January 23, 2026.
Ceremony Highlights Government Support for Reintegration
The event coincided with a blessing and turnover ceremony for new facilities and equipment at PRO-13, underscoring the government's commitment to strengthening law enforcement capabilities in the area. Alongside the former rebels, authorities also presented a total of 48 various firearms that had been surrendered or recovered, marking a tangible reduction in armed conflict resources.
As part of the government's immediate assistance, each of the 50 FRs received a sack of rice to help with basic needs. Additionally, those who had returned to the fold of the law under the provincial government of Agusan del Sur were provided with ₱10,000 in cash assistance per individual, aimed at supporting their initial steps toward reintegration into society.
Development Package Program Aims for Sustainable Livelihoods
Acting PNP Chief Nartatez emphasized that the acceptance and support for former rebels are integral components of the government's development package program. This initiative targets communities and ex-members of rebel groups, with the goal of offering comprehensive aid to facilitate their transition to peaceful, productive lives.
The program's objectives include:
- Providing employment opportunities to ensure financial stability.
- Offering seed capital for livelihood projects to foster self-sufficiency.
- Extending housing assistance to help establish a secure foundation for a new beginning.
This holistic approach aims to address the root causes of insurgency by promoting economic empowerment and social inclusion, thereby encouraging more rebels to lay down their arms and embrace legal avenues for progress.
The ceremony in Butuan City highlights ongoing efforts in the Philippines to combat insurgency through non-violent means, focusing on rehabilitation and community development. It reflects a strategic shift towards addressing the socio-economic factors that often drive individuals to join rebel groups, with PRO-13 playing a pivotal role in facilitating this transition in the Caraga region.
