By Katrina Gracia Consebido
The country’s Security adviser said the administration’s “Project Good Life” seeks to change the lives of former rebels who surrendered to the government through providing livelihood opportunities.
National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Vice Chairperson Secretary Clarita Carlos stressed the significance of peacebuilding for economic growth.
“The magic word really is to ‘sustain’ it, because no economic growth will happen, whenever there is no peace and order,” Carlos said.
The Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ZDS PTF-ELCAC) highlighted the progress of “Project Good Life for Friends Rescued” that gis eared towards a peaceful life away from violence.
Through partnership with 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion, local government units, concerned national government agencies, the JH Cerilles State College, and private sector, the Good Life Academy was established, where former rebels are encouraged to participate in “Good Life” curricula for one year.
The curriculum aims to improve the overall wellbeing of former rebels and teach them skills needed to build their own livelihoods and contribute to economic growth.
A total of 50 former rebels are currently taking the said program. – gb
