50 Former NPA Rebels Presented to Acting PNP Chief Nartatez in Butuan Ceremony
In a significant event in Butuan City, the Police Regional Office 13 (PRO-13) presented 50 former New People's Army (NPA) rebels, now referred to as "friends rescued" (FR), to acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief PLt Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. This presentation occurred during General Nartatez's command visit to Camp Rafael Rodriguez, coinciding with a blessing and turnover ceremony for new facilities and equipment at PRO-13.
Support and Assistance Provided to Returnees
As part of the ceremony, a total of 48 various firearms were also presented to General Nartatez. In an initial gesture of support, all 50 returnees received one sack of rice each. Additionally, those who surrendered under the provincial government of Agusan del Sur were given ₱10,000 in cash to meet their personal needs.
Government's Development Package Program
General Nartatez emphasized that welcoming and assisting these former rebels is a key component of the government's development package program. This initiative aims to provide communities and their members with:
- Employment opportunities
- Initial capital for livelihood projects
- Assistance with housing needs
The program is designed to help reintegrate former combatants into society, fostering stability and growth in affected areas.
