Empowering Peace: 53IB, Dumingag LGU, and AGRIKO Boost Corn Coffee Enterprise of Former Rebels

Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur — May 16, 2025

In a united effort to promote peace, reintegration, and sustainable livelihood, the 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB), the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Dumingag, and agri-enterprise AGRIKO conducted a Corn Powder Processing Training at Paglinawan Farm, aimed at strengthening the corn coffee production of former rebels (FRs) under a local People’s Organization.

The training is part of a broader livelihood rehabilitation initiative that equips FRs with technical knowledge in corn processing, improving the quality and market potential of their corn coffee a fast-rising symbol of hope, resilience, and transformation.

“This is not just training; this is transformation,” said LTC Rolando E. Vargas Jr., Commanding Officer of 53IB. “Through this initiative, our Friends Rescued prove that peace is not only possible it can be productive. We are here not just as soldiers, but as peacebuilders investing in their future.”

The corn coffee enterprise, spearheaded by the FRs, highlights how former conflict-affected individuals are becoming empowered entrepreneurs, turning local produce into high-value products. With support from the military, local government, and private sector, their organization continues to gain traction through consistent capacity-building and livelihood support.

Mayor Gerry T. Paglinawan of Dumingag, together with AGRIKO CEO Christine Paglinawan, led the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive agricultural development and post-conflict recovery.

“When we invest in people especially those given a second chance the entire community thrives,” said Mayor Paglinawan. “Our FRs are no longer on the sidelines. They are now champions of peace and rural progress.”

This initiative is aligned with the national government’s whole-of nation approach, promoting peace through livelihood, innovation, and grassroots empowerment. As the FRs continue to brew success one cup of corn coffee at a time the 53IB and its partners remain steadfast in turning peace from a promise into a lived reality.