MANILA, Philippines — Nearly 28,000 former rebels and their dependents have returned to the fold of the law since July 2022, bolstered by approximately ₱1 billion in government assistance, according to Malacañang.
Data from the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), released through the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), shows that 27,897 individuals received various forms of support between July 2022 and October 2026.
The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. continues to prioritize reintegration programs focused on livelihood, education, and community support.
During the 10th NTF-ELCAC Executive Committee meeting at Malacañan Palace last week, President Marcos directed relevant agencies to fast-track the Transformation Program. The initiative provides comprehensive assistance to help former combatants and their families rebuild their lives, including educational support that has already benefited at least 3,911 dependents under the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn Educational Assistance Program. Additionally, the government has established 4,713 people’s organizations to boost local economic opportunities.
Complementing individual reintegration, the administration’s Barangay Development Program has allocated ₱44.9 billion for infrastructure projects across 5,638 isolated areas.
These projects include 1,601 kilometers of farm-to-market roads, 978 classrooms, 1,182 water and sanitation systems, and 556 health stations, collectively benefiting an estimated 16.08 million Filipinos.
”The Marcos administration continues to pursue reintegration and community development initiatives aimed at providing former rebels and their families with opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute to lasting peace,” the PCO said.