FORMER MEMBERS of the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the communist movement, from Compostela Valley have formed livelihood associations to secure assistance from the government.

First Lieutenant Jhocell D. Asis, 71st Infantry Battalion civil military operations officer, said in a statement that about 200 ex-NPA rebels have organized three groups that are now registered with the Department of Labor and Employment. Mr. Asis said by forming these livelihood groups, the former rebels have qualified to become beneficiaries of the Community Support Program, which is part of the military’s Development Support and Security Plan.

Last week, the Medium Scale Industries Coordinated Action Program Foundation, Inc. held   a consultation with the groups on what projects they plan to pursue and how they can access government assistance. Mr. Asis said some of the proposals were in agriculture and small-scale trading. “(Funding) will be awarded upon the completion and approval of livelihood proposals,” he said. — Carmelito Q. Francisco

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