Reintegration set for ex-rebels

By Ali G. Macabalang

COTABATO CITY – Officials led by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman launched Tuesday in Isabela City a program that would help surrendered Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) reintegrate into mainstream society.

Dubbed Program Against Violent Extremism (PAVE), Hataman said it will be made an added component of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP), which benefits surrendered New People’s Army (NPA) combatants.

With the incorporation of PAVE into CLIP, surrendered ASG and BIFF members are now given chance for redemption and rehabilitation, Hataman said.

The ARMM governor related 139 ASG combatants have already yielded to government forces since late last year.

Meanwhile, Four BIFF fighters, all in their 20s, surrendered recently to military and civilian authorities in Maguindanao.

Hataman said PAVE is an excellent initiative as “sustainable” solution against the growth of violent extremism in Southern Philippines.

Under PAVE, surrendered ASG and BIFF combatants would undergo psychosocial, economic, educational and spiritual interventions.

“We will allow them (surrenderees) to live as normal and productive citizens in their communities (as) advocates for peace against violent extremism,” Hataman said.