69 Former Extremists in Sulu Receive Livelihood Assistance Through Government Program
In a significant move toward peace and stability, sixty-nine former violent extremists (FVEs) in Sulu province have been awarded livelihood assistance by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The aid was distributed through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip), as confirmed by military officials on Friday, March 27, 2026.
Ceremony Highlights Government Commitment
The distribution ceremony took place on Wednesday, March 25, at the Sulu Area Coordinating Center in Patikul, Sulu. According to the 1103rd Infantry Brigade (1103Bde), this event underscores the government's ongoing dedication to peace-building and reintegration initiatives in the region. The assistance aims to provide former combatants with sustainable livelihood opportunities as they transition back to productive civilian life.
The recipients are all former members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) based in Sulu. This targeted support is designed to help them rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.
Officials Praise Path to Peace
Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan II commended the FVEs for choosing peace and urged them to maximize the benefits of the assistance. He stressed the importance of unity and collective action in maintaining peace and fostering development across the province.
Engineer Carmelo Enrique Libot, officer-in-charge of DILG-Zamboanga Peninsula, emphasized the critical role of livelihood programs in empowering FVEs and preventing a return to armed activities. Dennis Villaseor, director of the DILG's National Barangay Operations Office, reaffirmed the government's commitment to inclusive development and the successful execution of reintegration programs like E-Clip.
Symbol of Hope and New Beginnings
Brigadier General Emmanuel Cabasan, commander of the 1103Bde and representing Major General Leonardo Peña of the 11th Infantry Division, highlighted that the ceremony symbolizes change, hope, and a fresh start toward peace. He praised the beneficiaries for opting for a better path and noted that the assistance offers a chance to rebuild livelihoods and support families and communities.
"Empowering FVEs through livelihood assistance is a crucial step toward achieving long-term peace and stability in Sulu," Cabasan stated, reinforcing the program's broader impact.
Unified Approach to Peace and Security
The awarding ceremony was attended by representatives from the Sulu Provincial Police Office, along with various government agencies and local stakeholders. This collaborative presence demonstrates a unified approach to enhancing peace and security in Sulu, showcasing a concerted effort to address the root causes of extremism through sustainable development.
This initiative not only aids individual recipients but also contributes to the overall peace-building framework in the province, aligning with national goals for security and prosperity.
