Over 300 former rebels in Camarines Sur have been given P30,000 worth of livelihood starter kits from the government to support their transition to civilian life.

The initiative was led by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Philippine Army.

The kits are intended to aid in agriculture and business ventures.

The recipients, known as 'Friend Rescue,' were once members of various rebel groups but have now committed to cooperating with the government.

Ramon Oliva, a former leader who used to gather members for rebel activities, shared his transition.

"Sa ngayon po, mas — nagkaroon ng katahimikan yung buhay ko. Walang masyadong iniisip kundi yung makatulong sa kapwa at umaangat-angat na rin yung kabuhayan na binigay sa akin ng gobyerno," Oliva said.

Lt. Col. Geneva Dañas of the 9th CMOR Battalion, Philippine Army, emphasized that these programs highlight the government's commitment to addressing the needs of former rebels.

"Nirerespeto naman po natin ang kanya-kanyang paniniwala [o] ideolohiya pero ito po ay nakita natin na hindi naa-address — yung kanilang kahirapan — kaya ngayon ipinaparating natin sila sa gobyerno para malaman nila ang kanilang mga benepisyo na maibibigay sa kanila," Dañas said.

In addition to the livelihood kits, authorities plan to collaborate with other government agencies, such as the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), to provide further assistance to these individuals.