Manila, May 6 -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has assisted around 10,000 former New People's Army (NPA) rebels and their families in the process of integrating themselves into mainstream society.

In a statement over the weekend, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said the aid provided by the agency includes livelihood and employment programs.

"Our department is committed to advancing the welfare of our fellow workers who are former rebels," DOLE Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez said.

He also said DOLE is committed to ensuring that opportunities are available for former combatants so that they can have "sustainable sources of income and transition successfully to civilian life.

Bena...