The Negros Occidental Halfway House in Santa Rosa, Murcia, a facility that will provide temporary shelter, support, and a second chance to individuals choosing to return to peaceful and productive lives in their communities, was blessed and inaugurated Aug. 18.
The facility was constructed as part of the province’s peacebuilding and reintegration efforts, reflecting its commitment not only to maintaining peace and order but also to providing hope, opportunities, and a second chance to those who have chosen the path of transformation and reintegration.
Beneficiaries will be provided with psychosocial interventions, livelihood training, and other activities for several weeks or months, to help them rebuild their lives and prepare for a more secure and productive future, the Capitol said.
The Halfway House is also part of the province’s support for the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, a national government initiative implemented through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict to support the reintegration of former rebels into mainstream society.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson thanked the beneficiaries for choosing to embrace change and pursue peaceful lives.
He assured them that government assistance does not end with their stay at the facility. “The true measure of success is when you are able to return to your communities, live peacefully, find employment, and support your families.”
Lacson said the facility is more than just a building; it symbolizes a second chance at life and a commitment to helping beneficiaries return to their communities with dignity, hope, and opportunities.
He thanked all agencies, partners, and individuals who contributed to the establishment of the facility, noting that further improvements are planned to enhance its services and provide a more supportive environment for beneficiaries.
Joining Lacson at the blessing and inauguration were Board Member Bambi Depasucat, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II, executive assistant and PIO Charina Magallanes-Tan, DILG Negros Occidental director and concurrent OIC assistant regional director of DILG-NIR Teodora Sumagaysay, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander BGen. Ted Dumosmog, Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office director P/Col. Dennis Wenceslao, Provincial Social Welfare and Development officer Chiqui Gonzales, NIR Federation of Peace Advocates president Egan Dañoso, and Capitol department and office heads, among others. ||
