3 Former Rebel Organizations Honored with Gawad Parangal at NTF-ELCAC 7th Anniversary

QUEZON CITY—Three former rebel (FR) people’s organizations were among the awardees recognized for their contributions to peacebuilding during the 7th Anniversary celebration of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) held on December 4, 2025 at the Dimalupig Hall, AFP Commissioned Officers Club (AFPCOC), Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

The Gawad Parangal is awarded annually to outstanding organizations, institutions, and government offices that have shown exceptional dedication to advancing peace and countering the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) in their respective regions. Over the years, the award has become a symbol of transformation and partnership, highlighting how community-led initiatives play a vital role in preventing the resurgence of local armed conflict.

This year, three FR organizations were honored for their sustained efforts to protect vulnerable communities, promote development, and offer credible narratives of peace rooted in lived experience.

From the National Capital Region, Haligi ng Kapayapaan ng Pilipinas, received the Gawad Parangal for its grassroots work in urban poor communities. As the NCR’s regional FR people’s organization, YAKAP has been active not only in advocating the right to housing and sustainable livelihood but also in monitoring and countering recruitment attempts by the NPA in urban barangays.

Haligi ng Kapayapaan ng Pilipinas

In Region 4B-MIMAROPA, Kapatiran ng mga Dating Rebelde (KADRE) was recognized for its work among fisherfolk and farming communities in Palawan. Once affected by CPP-NPA influence, these communities have since been rebuilt through livelihood programs, and localized peace engagements. KADRE also champions the defense of the West Philippine Sea, mobilizing coastal residents to raise awareness on maritime threats and stand firm against foreign incursions.

Kapatiran ng mga Dating Rebelde (KADRE)

Completing the roster of awardees is Kalinaw Southeastern Mindanao, the FR organization representing Region 11. With active provincial and municipal chapters across Davao Region, Kalinaw has been a major force in shifting the landscape of Southeastern Mindanao—from a longtime NPA stronghold to one of the most peaceful regions in the country. The organization conducts community dialogues, assists local governments in reintegration programs, and capacity-building activities, creating a broad coalition of peace advocates at the grassroots.

Kalinaw SEMR

Ida Marie Lubguban, president of Kalinaw SEMR, said that peace has a deeper meaning beyond the absence of violence.

“Peace is not simply the silence of arms. It is dignity restored, families reunited, and communities empowered. We know this because we once walked in the other direction, and we chose to turn back and rebuild,” she said.

The honors given to the three organizations served as a reminder that the country’s peace efforts do not end with dismantling armed fronts. They continue in the long, day-to-day work of healing communities, empowering families, and ensuring that the conditions that once fueled insurgency no longer take root. As NTF-ELCAC marks its seventh year, the contributions of these former rebels underscore a compelling truth—lasting peace is most powerful when built by those who once knew conflict but chose transformation.