Some 100 former Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) combatants in the municipality of Mabuhay, Zamboanga Sibugay have received new homes through the government’s PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) Program, marking another milestone in their transition to peaceful, productive lives.
The houses, worth over ₱40 million, were formally turned over on Aug. 7 in Barangay Taguisian, Purok Saba-Batang. The project was implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under its Modified Shelter Assistance Program (MSAP), with funding from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU).
OPAPRU executive director Cesar De Mesa, speaking on behalf of OPAPRU chief Carlito Galvez Jr., said the initiative was part of the MNLF Transformation Program aimed at uplifting former combatants and fostering peace in the communities.
“With the launch of this housing project, we have shown our solidarity, cooperation, and more importantly, the desire to give decent, sturdy, and comfortable homes to our MNLF brothers and their loved ones,” De Mesa said in Filipino.
Since 2023, at least 200 MSAP units have been completed for MNLF communities nationwide. De Mesa said the program seeks to improve livelihoods and strengthen peace and security under the DSWD’s Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa framework.
Mabuhay Mayor Edreluisa Caloñge thanked the national government for the project, which she said was long anticipated. She proposed renaming the MNLF camp “Mabuhay Nurturing Love and Friendship Community,” emphasizing unity and cooperation for lasting peace.
DSWD Undersecretary Alan Tanjusay urged the beneficiaries to take care for their new homes, describing them as starting points for peace, love, and mutual respect. He also encouraged parents to send their children to school to prepare the next generation of leaders.
Western Mindanao Command deputy chief Brig. Gen. Romulo Quemado II said the project was a product of both government resources and the sacrifices of the MNLF members themselves.
The beneficiaries also participated in a cash-for-work scheme, earning daily wages while contributing to construction work in the area.
MNLF community leader Marajol Lakibol also expressed gratitude and appealed for further livelihood support from the government.
De Mesa gave assurance of continued OPAPRU assistance for MNLF members, vowing to intensify efforts toward a more peaceful and progressive future for their communities.
