IN a recent event in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte, twenty-eight former rebels received agricultural toolkits from the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority of Surigao del Norte (TESDA-SDN).
The distribution was held at the military office of the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB), situated in Brgy Mahanub, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte on October 3, 2023.
The toolkits consisted of essential agricultural equipment including a pick mattock, knapsack sprayer, rake, post hole digger, and pruning shear.
These items were distributed to each beneficiary as part of the Agronomics training package implemented by TESDA-Surigao del Norte.
The initiative aims to support the integration of former rebels back into mainstream society by providing them with the means to lead a sustainable livelihood, according to 30IB Civil-Military Operations Officer 1st Lieutenant Ian Lemuel Lalata.
Lalata said the event was attended by notable figures including the Administrator of the Provincial Training Center in Surigao del Norte, Engr. Edwin C. Lanquino.
Also present were personnel of TESDA-Surigao del Norte led by its Provincial Director Ms. Catalina O. Tacubao, Commanding Officer of 30IB Lieutenant Colonel Jerold H. Jale, and Executive Officer of the 901st Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Sandy U. Sereño.
TESDA’s Provincial Director, Ms. Catalina Tacubao, expressed her commitment to supporting former rebels.
She said that TESDA has specific programs for former rebels and will continue to implement training for individuals seeking to develop their skills for future employment.
The Commanding Officer of the 30IB, Lt. Colonel Jale, conveyed his deep gratitude for the initiative.
He also assured that the 30IB troops would continue to work alongside various agencies to support the welfare of the former rebels, helping maintain the advances made so far.
“I am very grateful to our Friends Rescued for returning to the bosom of the law and hanging out with the soldiers of 30IB,” Jale said.
“I am also grateful to the TESDA office and Provincial Training Center in Surigao for their programs that will greatly assist our brothers and sisters who have awakened, as they start a new, peaceful life,” Jale stressed.
He said that this event marks a positive step towards the peaceful reintegration of former rebels into society.
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