Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenza urged the public on Saturday to support the government’s  anti-terrorist program, giving surrendering rebels a chance to go back to their respective communities.

He also added that as long as these surrendering rebels are clear with their purpose, they will be treated with a warm welcome for their efforts on going back to mainstream society.

“These former young rebels can be given another chance to have regular lives, a life where they do not need to run and hide. It’s never too late to have a change of heart and return to the fold of the law,” Lorenzana said in his statement.

“I am happy with their bold decision to return to the fold of the law,” he added.

With the help of the Under Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) coordinated by the Inter-Agency Task Force Balik Loob, former insurgents, rebels and violent extremists are allowed to receive benefits and services from various government agencies to assist them in returning to a normal society.

This help will include financial and livelihood assistance together with legal support and psychological assistance. KHALID MAGONDATO