The Philippine National Police (PNP) continues to reinforce the government’s Whole-of-Nation strategy in addressing internal security threats, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration among the police, military, and local government units in promoting peace and development across the country.
These efforts were strongly demonstrated on November 21, 2025, when 160 former rebels formally returned to the fold of the law during the Ceremonial Withdrawal of Allegiance and Reintegration of Former Rebels held at the Provincial Gymnasium, Capitol Compound, Sorsogon City.
The ceremony was led by Police Brigadier General Nestor C. Babagay Jr., Regional Director of Police Regional Office (PRO) 5, and attended by Brigadier General Jose Ricky A. Laniog, Commander of the 903rd Infantry Brigade; Governor Jose Edwin B. Hamor; DILG Director Atty. Arnold Escober; DOLE Director Imelda Gatinao; TESDA Director Archie A. Grande; Police Colonel Alex Daniel, Provincial Director of Sorsogon Police Provincial Office; and other PNP officials.
In his message, PBGen Babagay commended the former rebels for their courage in choosing peace. He emphasized that walking away from their former life required immense bravery and determination, and assured them that the government welcomes them with open arms as they begin their journey toward renewal, change, and peaceful living.
“Andito kami hindi upang husgahan kayo kundi upang bukas-palad kayong salubungin at tulungan sa inyong muling pagsisimula tungo sa pagbabago at isang matiwasay at maayos na pamumuhay,” he said.
PBGen Babagay further highlighted that their return represents not only a personal achievement but also a collective victory for the people of Sorsogon. He described it as a triumph for every mother who can now sleep peacefully, every farmer who can work his land without fear, and every child who can dream of a future free from the threat of conflict. He reminded the returnees that they are now part of the solution and play an important role in building a more peaceful and progressive Bicol region.
This event forms part of the government’s Whole-of-Nation Approach, implemented in partnership with the Provincial Government of Sorsogon through Governor Hamor’s 7K Katarangkiluhan Program. As part of their reintegration, the former rebels received financial assistance and will take part in the government’s comprehensive Transformation Program. This initiative includes local amnesty, livelihood and financial support, rice and grocery provisions, housing and healthcare services, psychological assistance, and various other reintegration interventions facilitated by PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and partner agencies.
The highlight of the ceremony was the signing of the Oath of Allegiance, formally marking their renunciation of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and their renewed commitment to peace, development, and nation-building.
A day earlier, on November 20, the Police Regional Office 6, under the leadership of PBGen Josefinio D. Ligan, Regional Director, also marked a significant milestone for peace as 50 former rebels took meaningful steps toward reintegration, guided by the principles of unity and public service.
Representing PBGen Ligan, Police Colonel Adrian V. Acollador, Chief of the Regional Operations Division, took part in the “Handog Serbisyo, Hakbang Tungo sa Kapayapaan: ECLIP and Firearm Remuneration Program Strengthening” spearheaded by DILG Region VI at Sam’s 21 Hotel in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.
This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), bringing together national and local stakeholders committed to support former rebels as they rebuild their lives and return to their communities. The distribution of assistance and gift packs demonstrated the government’s dedication to the returnee’s welfare and transition.
A multi-agency service caravan was also conducted, which provided former rebels and their families access to essential government services. These included National Police Clearance, dental care, medical and laboratory examinations, medicines, Philippine National ID registration, and additional services from other national agencies such as DENR, DAR, and OPAPRU. These efforts ensured that beneficiaries received comprehensive support in a single venue, making the reintegration process more accessible and meaningful.
Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Acting PNP Chief, reaffirmed the PNP’s commitment in sustaining peace. He emphasized that lasting peace is achieved when individuals returning to lawful society are given genuine opportunities to rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.
“PNP continues to stand alongside government partners in ensuring that former rebels are supported, guided, and empowered as they reintegrate into society,” he said.
Aligned with its transformation initiatives, PNP continues to advance its Focused Agenda, a strategic blueprint designed to improve police service and strengthen community engagement. The Nation’s Peacekeeper reminds those who are still on the wrong path, that the police and military remain ready to welcome and assist individuals seeking to return back to society. Through sustained collaboration with government agencies and local communities, PNP remains committed to fostering peace, development, and progress for a Bagong Pilipinas.
