Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity consultant, retired Brigadier General Bismark Soliba, praised the former rebels for their courage in returning to folds of the law and in organizing themselves. He explained that after peace, there is reconciliation, and government support to bring unity.
“Gawis ta binmaba kayu, gawis ta nin surrender kayu, et wada nan peace. If there is peace, there should be reconciliation. After that reconciliation, isunga adda dagitoy naduma duma nga agencies, adda unity.”
[It’s good that you surrendered, and that there is peace. If there is peace, there should be reconciliation. After that reconciliation, there is unity that is why the different agencies are here.]
Board member Henry Bastian, on behalf of Gov. Bonifacio C. Lacwasan, Jr., assured the provincial government’s support to the former rebels as they start a new life. He thanked them for withdrawing their support to the communist terrorist group, stressing that now is the time for tomorrow might be too late. As chairperson of the Committee on Peace and Order, he said they will craft local laws that will support the former rebels especially with their livelihood.
Provincial Administrator Franklin Odsey emphasized that conflict and insurgency hamper economic progress. As he welcomed the BLOMP to start a new chapter of their lives, he encouraged everyone to protect, and uphold peace for sustainable development.
Solidarity messages were also given by Cordillera Police Regional Director BGen. David K. Peredo, represented by PCOL. Ruel D. Tagel of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15, and Mountain Province Police Director Colonel Sibly P. Dawiguey.
Other highlights of the event were the distribution of food packs to the BLOMP members, and symbolic candle-lighting signifying the sincerity of the former rebels to be reintegrated, and to support the government and its programs. (JDP/VJLT-PIA CAR, Mountain Province)
