The Province of Iloilo was named as Best Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee Implementer in Western Visayas by the Department of National Defense Task Force Balik-Loob.
The recognition was given during the Task Force Balik-Loob 7th Founding Anniversary on May 21, 2025 at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Commissioned Officers Clubhouse, Tejeros Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
Receiving the award on behalf of Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. are Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office acting provincial government department head Rani Melvi A. Cuarte and Provincial Planning and Development Office acting provincial government department head Valme R. Lujan.
The award for Best E-CLIP Implementer was presented by Undersecretary for Defense Affairs and Chairperson of Task Force Balik-Loob Angelito M. De Leon and Task Force Balik-Loob Officer-in-Charge LTC Joseph D Aldanese (INF) PA.
The implementation of the E-CLIP in Iloilo province showcases its proactive initiatives, reintegration support, and collaborative efforts among committee members and partner agencies aimed at fostering peace and development in the province of Iloilo.
Iloilo has initiated several interventions for reintegration, including employment facilitation and educational assistance for those aspiring to pursue tertiary and technical education. It has enacted two specific policies to further support E-CLIP beneficiaries:
1. The Educational Reintegration Assistance Ordinance of the Province of Iloilo (Provincial Ordinance No. 2024-328) which offers educational assistance to former rebels (previous armed members of CPP NPA NDF) or their children seeking to pursue tertiary or technical education; and
2. The KAPATIRAN Educational Reintegration Assistance of the Province of Iloilo (Provincial Ordinance No. 2024-330) which extends educational support to KAPATIRAN members (RPM-P, RPA ABB TPG) or their dependents who wish to pursue technical or tertiary education.
The Iloilo Provincial Government through its E-CLIP Committee is updated every year through issuance of Executive Order.
For year 2024 alone, 26 Former Rebels were issued with Joint AFP and PNP Intelligence Certificates (JAPIC).
Preparations are underway for establishing a Halfway House for former rebels wishing to lay down their arms.
Various government agencies and Provincial Government offices are being engaged to provide support for E-CLIP beneficiaries.
While awaiting the processing of DILG-administered assistance packages for former rebels, the Iloilo E-CLIP Committee, through the PSWDO, provides Immediate Financial Assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
The PSWDO also facilitates coordination with other government agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), for food and livelihood assistance.
The Iloilo Provincial Government, through the Provincial Peace and Order Committee, assists with Amnesty Program applications and ensures the provision of necessary medical assistance. (PSWDO)