Four Panay rebel returnees get financial aid from govt
By JOYCE CLAVECILLAS, ABS-CBN Iloilo | 02/25/2009 11:48 PM
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Neneth Balenya, Romy Zonio, Randy Treso and Jornel Espada were members of the communist rebel movement in Capiz and Antique for years.
Recently however, the four decided to surrender to government authorities and bring back their loyalty to the government.
Neneth said that she was convinced to join the rebels when she was 21 years old because of their promises.
After three months of sleepless nights and “no permanent address” however, Neneth said she decided to quit.
Neneth along with the three other rebel returnees were recently given a P20,000 financial assistance as part of government’s Social Integration Program.
The formal turn-over ceremony was recently held at the Malacañang with no less than President Arroyo personally giving the check to the rebel returnees.
The rebel returnees reportedly will also benefit from government’s livelihood programs.
With this project, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said it expects more members of Communist Party of the Philippines and New People’s Army to surrender.
Neneth also said she is encouraging her former comrades to do the same.
