MARAWI CITY (PIA) – The 103rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army continues to advance its counter-terrorism operations while accelerating the reintegration of former violent extremists (FVEs) and former rebels (FRs) into mainstream society.
Major Jose Longcob Jr., the Brigade’s Operations Officer, reported during the 4th quarter joint meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) on December 12 that the brigade is currently processing the enrollment of over 200 FVEs into the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), with 202 from Lanao del Sur, 12 from Lanao del Norte, and 31 from Iligan City.
Additionally, the brigade facilitated the distribution of transitional support funds to 200 FVEs under the Preventing Violent Extremism program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity. The brigade also helped organize FVEs and FRs into 13 cooperatives to empower them toward economic self-sufficiency, with five already registered and eight currently undergoing registration.
On the operational front, the brigade continues to exert relentless pressure on threat groups. While members of Daulah Islamiyah – Lanao del Sur (DI Lanao) remain elusive, intensified military operations and increasing social pressure are expected to drive further surrenders.
“On SRC-5, the communist terrorist group is on the brink of collapse, as manifested by the significant reduction of armed components and capabilities. Likewise, a snowball of surrenderees is expected due to sustained pressure brought about by continuous combat operations,” Longcob said.
Moving forward, the 103rd Infantry Brigade will maintain a multi-pronged approach. Sustained security operations will continue, employing a combination of relentless pursuit operations and community support programs to counter terrorist threats effectively.
The brigade will also prioritize the successful implementation of ECLIP program, including operationalizing the halfway house to provide crucial support and facilitate the smooth reintegration of FVEs and FRs into their communities. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
