Former Rebels’ Organization in Central Luzon Receives Agricultural Kits
Camp Servillano Aquino, Tarlac City, July 19, 2024 – Members of the Malayang Magbubukid ng Hacienda Luisita (MALAYA), an organization of former rebels in Tarlac, received 120 cavans of fertilizers and 12 boxes of treelizers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Humanitarian Services through the collaboration of the Office of Senator Imee Marcos, RiceUp Farmers Inc., Sakahon Marketplace, the 1st Civil Relations Group, CRSAFP, and the City Government of Tarlac in a ceremonial turn-over held at Barangay Balete, Tarlac City, on July 19, 2024.
The turn-over of fertilizers to the MALAYA is part of the Northern Luzon Command through the 1st Civil Relations Group’s Project ‘KaPALAYpaan’ aimed at empowering the peasant sector of Central Luzon, who were former members and supporters of the Communist Terrorist Group, to boost their agricultural productivity and improve their livelihood.
Mr. Paul Donato, President, Tarlac Phil. Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints said that it is an opportunity to serve the purpose of Jesus Christ, which is to serve the people with the same objectives as the Armed Forces.
MALAYA became the recipient after they completed their agribusiness training program provided by RiceUp Farmers Inc. and Sakahon Marketplace as part of the sustainable programs for the farmers.
“It is very timely; they had the training and now the fertilizers, and the marketing, and then the financial assistance to establish their agricultural enterprises,” said Mr. Elvin Laceda, CEO, of RiceUp Farmers Incorporated.
He was also grateful to the 1st Civil Relations Group, CRSAFP, for connecting them to the MALAYA farmers and ensuring a continuous partnership with the AFP because of the common values and commitment to the community.
Meanwhile, members of the MALAYA expressed their gratitude to the benefactors and all the involved government agencies and stakeholders who joined forces and continued to assist them in being productive farmers in the region.
“We are very glad for this assistance, and these show the government’s concern for us and the different private stakeholders; they never left us but were always there to help us,” said Florida “Ka Pong” Sibayan, Chairperson of the MALAYA.
She also took the opportunity to call on the remaining members and supporters of the CTG to return to the folds of the law, join the MALAYA, and live peacefully.
Tarlac City Mayor Cristina Angeles was also present during the turnover and assured the MALAYA farmers of the continuous support from the Tarlac LGU and emphasized the importance of the Whole-of-Nation Approach in addressing issues.
“No problem is difficult if we work together; everything can be solved. Together with the NOLCOM, AFP, and other stakeholders, we will work for your development,” said Mayor Angeles.
It can be noted that the 1st Civil Relations Group, CRSAFP, launched its partnership and commitment to assist MALAYA with RiceUp Farmers Incorporated, Sakahon MarketPlace, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in November 2023, along with the launching of an agribusiness training program for the MALAYA farmers. (PR)
