22 ex-terrorists undergo business training course in southern Philippines
"You can't change the past, but you can shape the future."
NORTH COTABATO: Twenty-two former Moro terrorists undertook a business training course to help them develop entrepreneurial skills and establish sustainable livelihoods in the southern Philippine province of North Cotabato on Tuesday (Sept. 12).
The Ministry of the Interior and Local Government in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), in a statement Wednesday (Sept. 13), said they co-organised the Project TuGoN (Tulong Ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit) event with the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism Maguindanao at the army’s 34th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Midsayap municipality.
The army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade's 34th and 90th Infantry Battalions also supported the former members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters terror group in the programme aimed to help them start a business that is both profitable and sustainable.
Participating in the activity with their families demonstrated that they understood how crucial family support was to success.
Families can help the business succeed in the long run by sharing duties, offering emotional support, and contributing financially, said the ministry.
As families and former combatants cooperate to achieve a common objective, this can also help improve community social cohesion.
“The entrepreneurship training and livelihood assistance program of Project TuGoN is more than just an initiative; it represents a significant step toward the reintegration and empowerment of former combatants in Maguindanao del Sur and the Special Geographic Area,” said the ministry.
Marvin D Mokamad, the director for the ministry’s interior affairs services, said the BARMM government is committed to assisting ex-combatants in re-entering society and creating a better future for themselves and their families.
"You can't change the past, but you can shape the future," he said in the statement.
“Take advantage of the opportunities that the government provides. We are committed to assisting you throughout your journey, providing guidance and support as you work to create a sustainable and prosperous future for your family."