The government released 1,500 hito fingerlings in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, on Wednesday to support a livelihood project for former rebels transitioning back into civilian life.
The fingerlings were distributed at the Haligi ng Kapayapaan Peace Farm in Sitio Tubigan, Barangay Gaya-Gaya, under a joint initiative of the Department of Agriculture’s Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster and the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ National Capital Region Command.
The project aims to provide former rebels who are now members of HAKAP Federation Inc. with a sustainable source of income while strengthening food security and community-based peacebuilding.
Assistant Secretary James Layug led the agriculture sector’s participation, emphasizing aquaculture as a practical livelihood option for beneficiaries seeking to become self-reliant and productive members of their communities.
Lt. Col. Arniel Tormis represented NCRCOM commander Maj. Gen. Gregorio Hernandez Jr. Personnel from the Philippine Army’s 11th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, local government units, law enforcement agencies and civil society groups also joined the activity.
The HAKAP Peace Farm Project forms part of the government’s Whole-of-Nation Approach, which seeks to address the roots of conflict through livelihood assistance, community participation and coordinated government support.
NCRCOM said it would continue backing programs focused on former rebel reintegration, community development and long-term peacebuilding.