MAWAB, Davao de Oro – Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr. has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peace and development by urging former rebels to take full advantage of reintegration programs designed to help them rebuild their lives.
Representing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the presentation of 232 former rebels, now called “friends rescued,” Lagdameo emphasized the critical role of public-private partnerships in ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region.
“The president always says that public-private partnerships are essential for businesses. The same principle applies here— the government is here to help you,” Lagdameo stated.
In a show of personal commitment, Lagdameo pledged ₱1 million as seed money for livelihood programs aimed at helping the former rebels transition into productive members of society.
“My family has pledged to help with this program. I am personally committing one million pesos as seed money,” he announced.
Lagdameo, who hails from a prominent political and business family in Mindanao, is the grandson of Antonio O. Floirendo Sr., founder of the Tagum Agricultural Development Company, Inc. (TADECO)— one of the country’s largest banana plantations. His ties to the business sector further highlight the potential for collaboration between the government and private enterprises in supporting peace initiatives.
Several local officials joined the event to reaffirm their commitment to the reintegration of former rebels.
Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib encouraged the “friends rescued” to help convince remaining rebels to surrender, assuring them of the government’s full support.
“Let’s work together for development. Help us encourage those still hiding to come forward and be part of a law-abiding community,” Jubahib urged.
Davao Oriental Governor Niño Uy Jr. echoed this sentiment, assuring former rebels that they would have a safe and peaceful place to start anew through the province’s “Happy Home” program— a reintegration initiative for former insurgents.
“We believe peace can only be achieved through cooperation between the government and the people. Sustainable peace happens when everyone feels included and empowered,” Uy emphasized.
Davao de Oro Governor Dorothy Gonzaga also pledged support for the families of the former rebels, particularly in education.
“We will do our best to support you. We will offer scholarships and other assistance. This is our role,” Gonzaga assured.
The former rebels are beneficiaries of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which offers a wide range of support, including:
• Immediate financial assistance
• Livelihood aid (financial support and skills training)
• Counseling and mental health support
• Housing assistance
• Educational scholarships for dependents
• Skills training for employability
• Security and protection for returnees and their families
These measures aim to ensure that former rebels can reintegrate successfully and lead peaceful, productive lives.
With continued collaboration between the government, local leaders, and private stakeholders, the commitment to peace and reintegration remains stronger than ever.
