East Visayas peace council seeks P12-B fund vs insurgency

TACLOBAN CITY, Aug. 17 --The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) in Eastern Visayas has proposed for the allocation of PHP12 billion “peace fund” from the national government for rebel-infested areas in the region.

“If we have a common fund, it will be easier for us to access the budget because it takes time if the funding requirement is delegated to national government agencies because of prioritization,” said Samar Governor and RPOC chairperson Sharee Ann Tan on Thursday. 

The official, however, clarified that she has nothing against national government agencies controlling the budget and implementing projects because they could easily work with the local government unit.

“The only problem is, it takes some time before the project is implemented by the agency and it takes away the sense of urgency,” Tan added.

She said the “peace fund” would be used to finance projects identified by locals.

The funding can be allocated by tranche every year, according to her.

Under the proposal, the budget will not only focus on funding infrastructure projects, but also include livelihood support to make the program more integrated.

The Philippine Army has tagged 32 towns and one city in Eastern Visayas as priority in their anti-insurgency drive, citing recent reports of attacks and fortification activities of armed rebels.

These areas are San Isidro, Victoria, Bobon, Catarman, Lope de Vega, Las Navas, Silvino Lobos, Laoang, Palapag, and Lapinig in Northern Samar; Matuguinao, San Jorge, San Jose de Buan, Jiabong, Motiong, Hinabangan, Calbiga, Pinabacdao, Basey, and Marabut in Samar.

Also listed are Arteche, Oras, Dolores, Can-avid, Balangiga, and Giporlos in Eastern Samar; Carigara, Jaro, Albuera, Burauen, Mahaplag, Baybay City, and Hilongos in Leyte.

Insurgency remains a top concern, especially in areas inaccessible or isolated making residents vulnerable to influence of rebellion.

Among the reasons why insurgency thrives in remote villages are land reform issues, lack of economic activities, and poor road network. (RTA/PNA)