Duterte to rebel returnees: Tell your ex-comrades to surrender

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte has called on rebel returnees to convince their former comrades to come down from the mountains and tell them that the government is ready to talk to them. 

Duterte said a lot of money has been wasted because of the decades-long conflict between the government and communist rebels. 

“Tell the idiots there in the mountains to come down. In that 53 years, you could say that the government has spent billions and billions of money,” the President said during the award of housing units to former rebels in Davao del Norte on Tuesday. 

“I have no problem if you fools want to go back there. Just tell them that Rody says he wants to talk because if I am not able to address your concerns during my time, life for you will be very difficult. Keep that in mind,” he added.

Partners

Duterte urged the surrenderees to be partners in building a “more prosperous, inclusive and equitable Philippines.”

“In the spirit of peace and solidarity, I look forward to having you as partners in creating a better and brighter future for all Filipinos,” he said.

The Chief Executive gave assurance that the government is taking concrete measures to address the needs of rebel returnees, including financial and housing assistance and firearms remuneration. 

“The successful implementation of these programs is made possible through the efforts of all stakeholders who remain steadfast in pursuing peaceful, inclusive and holistic reforms,” the President said. 

Housing

The President awarded housing units to 375 rebel returnees at the Freedom Residences in Barangay Cuambogan in Tagum City. At least 60 units are ready for occupancy.

The housing units were initially allocated for military and police personnel, but the National Housing Authority (NHA) reallocated them for rebel returnees as provided under Administrative Order 10.

The NHA said it would provide housing assistance worth P450,000 for the family of each rebel returnee. Those with existing housing units will also receive P100,000 for repair and improvement. – With Edith Regalado, Christina Mendez