CAMP OSITO D. BAHIAN, Malaybalay City — A total of 41 Former Rebels (FRs) have successfully finished the Adlai Enterprise Development Seminar held at Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Center (NMACLRC), Brgy. Dalwangan, this city on May 19, the military said in a statement.

In a press statement, Lt. Col. Jennan E. Montealto, civil-military Operations Officer of the 403rd Brigade said the seminar was realized in partnership with the 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade and the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional office 10.

He said the activity aims to provide livelihood training as part of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for FRs for their livelihood and sustainment because of its promising potential as a source of income due to its lucrative price ranging from ₱250.00 to ₱275.00/kilogram. The Hineleban Foundation sells it for ₱350.00 to ₱400.00/kilogram.

Adlai is a tall-grain-bearing tropical plant from Poaceae (grass family), same as wheat, corn, and rice abundantly growing in the country and is being cultivated as a staple food. It has been eyed as an alternative crop for rice and corn due to its health benefits as anti-allergic, anti-mutagenic, hypolipemic, anti-diabetic effects, and exhibits anti-cancer properties.

“Pagsulod namo dire, wala kami nakahibalo kung unsa ning Adlai nga tanom pero nakadungog nami ani. Karun pagkahuman sa amoang seminar, dako ang akong kalipay kay naa mi nakita nga paglaum sa pag-uma labaw na aning Adlai. Malipayon na ang akong pamilya tungod ani ug dako ang maikatabang namo ani sa komunidad” said Dado Gabaw, a former rebel.

Ms. Lorena Duna, Supervising Science Research Specialist, Mr. Carmelito R Lapoot, the Chief, and Mr. Nilo C. Panugaling Jr., Research Assistant of NMACLRC graced the activity. Mr. Jose D Maureal Sr. of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) also witnessed the activity.

Brig. Gen. Ferdinand T Barandon, commander of 403rd Peacemaker Brigade expressed his appreciation to NMACLRC and DTI for the said endeavor.

“We feel honored to be part of this program where different agencies are sincerely doing their best to provide appropriate and necessary interventions accorded to our FRs. With this opportunity, it will be a lifetime gain for them. We are looking forward to other former rebels being given opportunities for this kind of seminar,” the general said.