By: Jessa M. Cleopas
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon (PIA) — The Philippine government has issued an urgent appeal to active members of the New People's Army (NPA) to surrender and return to mainstream society before the March 2026 amnesty deadline. Brig. Gen. Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, emphasized the importance of this "rare opportunity" during an interaction with the media on January 12.
“Time is running out. We are offering a chance to return to normal life, free from the fear of imprisonment,” Anayron stated. He urged NPA rebels still in the mountains to take action now and benefit from the government's programs designed to support their reintegration.
The government’s 2025 Peace and Development Roadmap focuses on supporting former rebels through financial aid, livelihood opportunities, and skills training. The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) offers P15,000 in emergency assistance, P50,000 for livelihood, and housing units in Malaybalay and Cagayan de Oro. In partnership with DTI, DOLE, and DSWD, the program also provides technical and vocational training to help former rebels reintegrate into civilian life.
These efforts, backed by Executive Order No. 70 and the NTF-ELCAC, aim to foster lasting peace. Brig. Gen. Anayron urged rebels to seize this opportunity for a better future, noting just 14 months remain until the amnesty deadline.
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