UNDERSTANDING THE REINTEGRATION CHALLENGES AND RESILIENCE FACTORS

OF REBEL RETURNEES

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Thesis Proposal
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Presented to the Faculty of the

College of Criminal Justice Education
Isabela State University
Echague, Isabela

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In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements in
Criminological Research 1
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LOPEZ, LLOYD MARK

BARACAO, JOHN RUSSEL
CARTAS, RHEINDELL G.
FLOTILDES, ERNEST JOEMEL R.
SORIANO, FEDERICO JR S.

Researchers

First Semester, S.Y. 2024

 THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

The province of Isabela, situated in the heart of the Philippines, has witnessed a complex socio-

political landscape marked by periods of insurgency and armed conflict. As the region grapples with

the aftermath of these turbulent times, a pressing concern emerges— the successful reintegration of

rebel returnees into mainstream society. This research seeks to delve into the multifaceted dimensions

of the reintegration process, aiming to comprehend the challenges faced by individuals who have

chosen to abandon insurgency and explore the factors that contribute to their resilience during this

transformative journey.

The reintegration of rebel returnees poses a unique set of challenges that extend beyond the

immediate cessation of armed activities. Often, individuals returning to civilian life find themselves

navigating a complex web of psychological, social, economic, and political hurdles. Understanding

these challenges is crucial not only for the successful reintegration of former rebels but also for the

broader goal of fostering sustainable peace and stability in the region.

In the province of Isabela, which has experienced its share of conflict-related incidents, there

exists a critical need to assess the specific reintegration challenges faced by rebel returnees. By gaining

insights into the factors hindering their successful reintegration, policymakers, local authorities, and

non-governmental organizations can tailor interventions to address the unique needs of this population,

fostering a more inclusive and stable society.

Moreover , this research aims to shed light on the resilience factors that enable some rebel

returnees to overcome the obstacles in the reintegration process successfully. By identifying these

factors, the study seeks to inform the development of targeted support mechanisms that can bolster the

resilience of individuals transitioning from insurgency to civilian life.

In conclusion, this research endeavors to contribute valuable knowledge to the ongoing efforts

towards sustainable peace and development in the Province of Isabela. Through a comprehensive
 examination of the reintegration challenges and resilience factors of rebel returnees, the findings of this

study aim to inform evidence-based policies and interventions that facilitate a smoother transition for

former rebels, ultimately fostering a more harmonious and resilient society in the region.

Statement of the Problem

Generally, this study aims to assess understanding the reintegration challenges and resilience

factors of rebel returnees.

Specifically, it sought to answer the following:

1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:

a. age;

b. gender;

c. civil status;

d. educational attainment;

e. socioeconomic status;

f. employment before joining the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), and

g. length of stay as an Communist Terrorist Group (CTG)?

2. What are the factors that motivated the respondents to join the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG)?

3. What are the challenges encountered by rebel returnees during the process of transitioning from a

conflict environment to civilian life?

4. What contributed to the resilience of the participants as they underwent the process of

reintegration?

5. What is the difference in the challenges encountered by the respondents when grouped according to

their profile?

Objectives of the Study

Generally, this study aims to assess understanding the reintegration challenges and resilience

factors of rebel returnees.

Specifically, it sought aim to:

1. Determine the profile of the respondents in terms of:

1.1 age;

1.2 gender;

1.3 civil status;

1.4 educational attainment;

1.5 socioeconomic status;

1.6 employment before joining the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), and

1.7 length of stay as an Communist Terrorist Group (CTG)

2. Know the factors that motivated the respondents to join the rebel group.

3. Identify the challenges encountered by rebel returnees during the process of transitioning from a

conflict environment to civilian life.

4. Know the factors that contributed to the resilience of the participants as they underwent the process

of reintegration.

5. Know if there is a difference in the challenges encountered by the respondent when grouped

according to their profile.

Significance of the Study

The outcomes of this research hold substantial importance for various stakeholders, providing

insights and prompting positive actions in several areas:

Rebel Returnees. This study will illuminate the significance of government initiatives, particularly the

Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), empowering returnees by reinstating

their confidence in governmental support.

AFP Personnel. The findings will serve as a vital resource for the Armed Forces of the Philippines

(AFP), fostering awareness about the motivations behind community members joining the CPP-NPA.

This understanding can help strategize efforts to address the root causes driving people to such

organizations.
NPA’s (New People’s Army). The research outcomes will guide the NPA towards reintegration into

mainstream society, providing insights into the benefits of disengaging from rebel groups and

embracing a more constructive path.

Local Government Unit. The study's revelations will encourage a shift in mindset within local

government units, emphasizing that supporting returnees is not only a humanitarian endeavor but also a

reflection of effective leadership, challenging any opportunistic tendencies during election periods.

Lawmaking Body. The findings can serve as a foundational reference for lawmakers, assisting in the

formulation of legislation aimed at encouraging other members of the CPP-NPA who may harbor

doubts about the effectiveness of government programs.

Provincial Social Welfare Development Office (PSWDO). The study will highlight the importance of

streamlining the processes involved in availing benefits through E-CLIP, prompting the PSWDO to

consider efficiency measures that expedite the claims of beneficiaries and address common challenges.

Scope and Delimitations

The primary objective of this study is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the reintegration

challenges faced by rebel returnees, specifically focusing on their experiences post-surrender and

endeavors to lead normal and peaceful lives.

Despite the researchers' eagerness to achieve broad coverage for the study's optimal outcomes,

certain constraints dictate the scope and delimitations. The research will be exclusively conducted

within the province of Isabela, encapsulating the experiences of rebel returnees over the past five years.

A targeted sample of 40 respondents will be selected utilizing the purposive sampling method,

concentrating on eliciting in-depth narratives of their journeys as individuals who have returned from

rebellion. This focused approach allows for a detailed exploration of the unique contextual factors

within Isabela, contributing valuable insights into the challenges and successes encountered by rebel

returnees in this specific geographic and temporal context.

Definition of terms
 The following terms are defined operationally for a better understanding of the research.

CPP-NPA-NDF. The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic

Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) is the longest-armed insurgency and biggest communist armed conflict in our

country. The communist group was established in the year 1969 to rebel against the administration of

the late Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr, and until now the communist group still exists.

Communist Terrorist Group (CTG). The term "Communist Terrorist Group" is a label used by the

Philippine government and some other entities to describe organizations such as the New People's

Army and its supporters. The designation implies that these groups use terrorist tactics, such as

violence against civilians, to further their political objectives. The Philippine government, under

various administrations, has classified the NPA and its affiliated organizations as terrorist groups due to

their armed insurgency against the state

Rebel Returnees. Rebel returnees refer to former members of the communist group who have

voluntarily surrendered to the government with the intention of embracing a conventional, peaceful

lifestyle.

Reintegration. Reintegration is the process or pathway facilitating the return of individuals or groups

who have experienced separation, isolation, or exclusion from societal or organizational systems over

an extended period. This involves re-establishing connections, duties, rights, and obligations,

promoting the effective return of individuals or groups to mainstream society.

Resilience. Resilience encompasses both the process and outcome of successfully adapting to

challenging life situations. It involves mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility, allowing

individuals to adjust to external and internal pressures effectively. Resilience is characterized by the

ability to navigate and overcome adversity, fostering a capacity for positive adjustment in the face of

hardship.
 REVIEW RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter provides a comprehensive review of literature and studies relevant to the research,

offering valuable insights into the nature of the study. The synthesized literature delves into various

aspects surrounding the reintegration challenges of rebel returnees.

Reasons/ Factors That Motivated Person To Join Rebel Group

a. Socio-Economic Grievances

Studies by Mampilly (2015) and Wood (2016) highlight socio-economic grievances as primary

motivators for joining rebel groups. Economic marginalization, lack of opportunities, and unequal

distribution of resources push individuals towards rebellion. These grievances are often compounded

by perceptions of government corruption and neglect (Wood, 2016).

b. Political Exclusion

Political exclusion emerges as another significant factor motivating individuals to join rebel

movements. Research by Humphreys and Weinstein (2014) underscores the role of exclusionary

politics in fostering grievances and mobilizing support for rebel groups. Marginalized ethnic or

religious groups may perceive rebellion as the only means to gain political representation and voice

their demands (Humphreys & Weinstein, 2014).

c. Identity and Belonging

Identity-based motivations also feature prominently in the literature. Kalyvas (2015) argues that

individuals join rebel groups to defend their group identity and cultural values against perceived

threats. Rebel movements often capitalize on ethnic, religious, or ideological identities to recruit

members and foster solidarity among followers (Kalyvas, 2015).

d. Social Networks and Peer Influence

Social networks and peer influence play a crucial role in recruitment processes. Recent studies

by Berman et al. (2017) and Lyall et al. (2018) emphasize the significance of social ties and networks

in shaping individual decisions to join rebel groups. Friends, family members, and community leaders

can exert strong influence, providing social validation and support for participation in rebellion

(Berman et al., 2017; Lyall et al., 2018).

e. Psychological Factors

Psychological factors, such as a sense of injustice, resentment, or desire for revenge, also

contribute to recruitment. Klandermans and Oegema (2015) suggest that feelings of grievance and

perceived injustice motivate individuals to seek redress through rebellion. Moreover, the promise of

empowerment and agency within rebel movements may attract individuals seeking to challenge the

status quo and effect change (Klandermans & Oegema, 2015).

Challenges Encountered By Rebel Returnees During The Process Of Transitioning From A

Conflict Environment To Civilian Life

a. Stigmatization and Social Rejection

Stigmatization and social rejection pose significant challenges to the successful reintegration of

rebel returnees, as evidenced by research conducted in Acholiland, northern Uganda, focusing on the

Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) returns (Macdonald & Kerali, 2020). This study reveals that individuals

who disassociate themselves from the rebel organization often confront pervasive shame and

marginalization upon returning to their communities. Despite the commonplace use of the term

'stigma,' the concept remains inadequately defined, prompting a critical examination of its multifaceted

nature through the lens of returnees' recollections.

Macdonald and Kerali's essay delves into the 'moral experience' of postwar societal restoration,

theorizing that stigmatization is intricately woven into this process. Employing interview-based and

anthropological methodologies, the research uncovers that stigmatization takes diverse forms and
serves various goals, challenging the oversimplification of the term. Contrary to being solely a

mechanism of "social control," stigmatization might also carry a "reintegrative" purpose, complicating

prevailing assumptions. This case study from northern Uganda enriches both the conceptual and

empirical understanding of stigmatization's manifestations and functions in places of return, prompting

a critical examination of the rationale behind interventions aimed at mitigating its impact.

Furthermore, McMullin's research (2012) sheds light on the false beliefs surrounding the

reintegration of former combatants, particularly the misconception that extended support for these

individuals poses a threat to public safety and fosters animosity within the community. Drawing on data

from Liberia, the study unveils how such misguided thinking contributes to the stigmatization of

former fighters, hindering their ability to seamlessly reintegrate into the post-conflict state's social,

political, and economic spheres. The perpetuation of these presumptions not only stigmatizes returnees

but also obstructs their integration into the broader community, emphasizing the need to challenge and

reconsider these entrenched beliefs for more effective reintegration efforts.

In essence, understanding the complexities of stigmatization and debunking erroneous beliefs is

pivotal for crafting interventions that genuinely facilitate the successful reintegration of rebel returnees,

fostering inclusivity and dismantling barriers to their return to mainstream society.

b. Community Rejection and Trust Building

The successful reintegration of former soldiers stands as a critical pillar for the stability of post-

conflict communities, a focal point explored through an experimental lens in Northern Uganda (Bauer

et al., 2013). The study investigates the dynamics between receiving communities and ex-soldiers,

particularly emphasizing the pivotal role of trust in the reintegration process. Notably, the level of

trustworthiness is found to correlate with the duration ex-soldiers spent with the Lord's Resistance

Army (LRA), a rebel organization that forcibly recruited a substantial portion of the local youth

population.
 The research underscores that the effect of trust is most pronounced for ex-soldiers who were

abducted as children, diminishing for those who joined the rebel forces as adults. These findings align

with contemporary theories emphasizing the significance of collaboration in conflict-ridden

environments. Importantly, community members who have personal experiences with abducted

children-turned-soldiers exhibit a nuanced understanding of former combatants, recognizing behavioral

differences and, consequently, placing greater trust in their reliability. Furthermore, the absence of

preference-based discrimination signals that communities are less resentful when returning troops are

not held singularly accountable for acts of violence, highlighting the complexity of community

perceptions during the reintegration process.

Annan et al. (2009) contribute valuable insights into the aftermath of conflict, particularly

focusing on the reintegration challenges faced by young soldiers returning from a rebel group in

northern Uganda. Through qualitative methodology and a representative quantitative survey involving

23 male youth abducted by the LRA and 741 abducted and nonabducted youth in the region, the study

delves into the intricacies of returning home, the reception by families and neighbors, emotional

experiences, and the negotiation of transitioning from a "rebel" to a "formerly abducted child" within

the family and community structure.

However, Podder's study (2012) sheds light on the limitations of a normative approach to

reintegration in disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs. While returning to

one's home community is a normative need around which reinsertion and reintegration support are

typically organized, this study argues that such an approach overlooks the pre-war societal processes

that led to the recruitment of rebels. Additionally, it disregards civilian accounts of abuse and coercion

by rebels, resulting in significant social tensions between former fighters and communities post-

conflict. The study introduces the "recruitment–reintegration" nexus, offering insights that may inform

future efforts to enhance DDR initiatives by addressing the root causes of conflicts between civilian

populations and former fighters.

Coping Mechanisms/ Social Support and Resilience

a. Community-Based Programs

The journey of rebel returnees towards reintegration is marked by transformative decisions and

the realization of invaluable lessons from their experiences. Acknowledging the importance of

providing avenues for a fresh start, the government, in collaboration with various agencies and

programs, extends support to these returnees, empowering them to become contributing members of

society.

The commitment to fostering positive change is exemplified by the provision of substantial

grants totaling P380,000.00, each worth P20,000, enabling former rebels to embark on livelihood

projects such as fishing, livestock production, and retail/wholesale commerce. Project proposals

submitted by the returnees undergo meticulous evaluation, ensuring proper budgetary allocation and

alignment with sustainable development goals.

Underpinning these efforts is the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), administered by the

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). This program, along with others, is

instrumental in executing the mandates outlined in Executive Order (EO) 70, signed by President

Rodrigo Duterte in December 2018. EO 70 serves as a comprehensive strategy to address local

communist armed conflict, with the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) as

a crucial component. E-CLIP aims to facilitate access to government programs and services, enabling

individuals in armed groups to transition away from conflict and resume normal lives.

Regional Task Forces on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCACs) play a

pivotal role in implementing the goals of EO 70. Collaboratively, these task forces work towards

permanently and peacefully ending armed conflicts with non-state armed groups. The DSWD, as an

active member of several RTF-ELCAC Clusters, strategically provides social protection services to

achieve the goals set forth in EO 70, particularly catering to the needs of former rebel (FR)

beneficiaries.
 Noteworthy success stories include the deactivation of 727 KAPATIRAN members and the

subsequent demilitarization of 337 of the group's turned-in guns. In a significant gesture towards their

reintegration, President Duterte announced comprehensive support for rebels who choose to return,

aiming to transform them into contributing members of society. The Department of Agriculture, as part

of its support program, granted Kapatiran members certificates of availment for agricultural resources,

including vegetable, rice, and corn seeds, fruit tree seedlings, as well as livestock like chicken and

native pigs.

President Duterte's commitment extends to various government departments, each contributing

to the holistic well-being of returnees. Initiatives range from the Department of Environment and

Natural Resources providing contracts for Forest Guards and a community-based Forest Management

Agreement, to the Department of Labor and Employment granting certificates of entitlement to

livelihood projects. Additionally, returnees receive support in the form of PhilHealth cards, immediate

cash assistance, certificates of completion for skills training, and lot awards for housing units.

Administrative Order (AO) No. 10, signed by President Duterte on April 3, plays a crucial role

in coordinating reintegration operations. This order establishes the Task Force on Balik-Loob (TFBL)

as the chief coordinating body responsible for overseeing reintegration efforts. The TFBL's

Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) provide the framework for a comprehensive, integrated,

community-based national program, ensuring that interventions are tailored to the specific needs of

former rebels. TFBL centralizes social services from various government agencies, including the

PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) and the Comprehensive Local Integration Program

(CLIP). The benefits provided to beneficiaries cover a spectrum of needs, ranging from safety and

security to legal assistance, livelihood materials, and healing and reconciliation initiatives.

In essence, these community-based programs underscore the government's commitment to

holistic rehabilitation, recognizing that the journey towards reintegration involves not only economic

support but also social, psychological, and legal assistance. The aim is to empower rebel returnees to
become self-sufficient, law-abiding citizens, fostering lasting peace and prosperity within communities

(DSWD Philippines, 2021; Govt. Philippines, 2019; Parrocha, 2018).

b. Legal Issues

The Philippines, in its pursuit of peace and resolution, has faced longstanding conflicts with

rebel groups, notably in Mindanao, the country's largest conflict zone (The Philippines: Dismantling

Rebel Groups - Philippines, 2013). President Benigno Aquino III's efforts, including an October 2012

arrangement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), were aimed at bringing an end to key

insurgencies. However, the challenge remains substantial, requiring new energy and creative solutions,

particularly in addressing the proliferation of weapons in Mindanao.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte took a distinctive approach by establishing the National Task

Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in late 2018, aiming to conclude the

almost 50-year insurgent campaign of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed

wing, the New People's Army (NPA). However, the methods employed by the NTF-ELCAC have

drawn criticism and allegations of human rights abuses. Thousands of citizens, predominantly from

impoverished backgrounds with no direct ties to insurgency, have reported being pressured to sign

forms stating their surrender, facing threats of criminal charges if they refuse. The process, known as

red-tagging, has led to the identification of individuals as communist sympathizers, NPA members, or

terrorists, resulting in widespread repercussions across civil society.

As of the beginning of 2022, rights advocates, including the national human rights network

Karapatan, reported 3,908 citizens compelled to surrender, with approximately 4,000 individuals

incarcerated on politically unjustified accusations since the establishment of NTF-ELCAC. The red-

tagging tactic has ensnared activists, journalists, clergy, UN special rapporteurs, and celebrities,

expanding its impact beyond alleged insurgents. The Anti-Terrorism Act, signed into law in July 2020,

has been a tool employed by the government against activists. While the law has faced challenges, it
has also been used to target activists, Indigenous peoples, unionists, and those accused of being

communist insurgents, creating concerns about its impact on human rights and humanitarian work

(Beltran, 2023; Philippines, 2022).

The persistent nature of the 52-year-old communist insurgency in 2021 led to counter-

insurgency operations against the NPA, resulting in government security forces targeting leftist

activists, including peasant leaders, environmentalists, human rights attorneys, and Indigenous leaders.

"Red-tagging" has become a common practice, placing individuals at serious risk of harm. The

targeting of attorneys defending those labeled as "red-tagged" has led to tragic incidents, such as the

killings of human rights lawyers Rex Fernandez and Juan Macababbad. The National Task Force for

Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict has played a central role in these actions, involving officials

from various government departments, including the military and police (Philippines, 2022).

These legal issues underscore the complex and challenging landscape in the Philippines, where

efforts to address insurgencies have been marred by allegations of human rights abuses, extrajudicial

actions, and concerns about the impact on civil liberties.

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has been a staunch advocate for the Philippine government's

commitment to facilitating the economic reintegration of former insurgents into society. Recognizing

the multifaceted challenges faced by these individuals, Senator Go emphasizes the importance of

providing essential resources to support not only the former rebels themselves but also their families.

Senator Go's consistent support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s decision to grant amnesty

to former rebels and insurgents underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to address the

underlying causes of revolt. According to Senator Go, deprivation and a lack of public services are

significant contributors to the insurgency issue. To address these root causes, he has been actively

pushing for and endorsing initiatives focused on improving livelihood opportunities, housing,

healthcare, education, and agricultural programs.

 The Balik-Loob Program, integral to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed

Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), stands out as a crucial component in the efforts towards economic

reintegration. This program, championed by Senator Go, is designed to aid former rebels in

successfully reintegrating into society by providing them with legal protections and a diverse array of

support.

One noteworthy aspect of the Balik-Loob Program is the LandBank-provided loan facility,

known as the Balik-Loob Lending Program. This initiative plays a pivotal role in empowering former

rebels to start or expand their enterprises, fostering economic self-sufficiency. The E-CLIP, or

Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, complements these efforts by incorporating a

loan initiative, demonstrating a commitment to assisting former rebels in their journey towards

successful reintegration into society.

Senator Go's emphasis on the need to maintain these programs highlights their significance in

persuading insurgents to choose a path of peace and cooperation rather than resorting to force as a

means to address their grievances. By fostering economic opportunities and providing the necessary

resources, Senator Go envisions achieving lasting peace in communities affected by insurgency,

thereby contributing to the broader objective of national stability and development (Senate of the

Philippines, 2023)

Conceptual Framework

INDEPENDENT VARIABLE DEPENDENT VARIABLE

Profile of the respondents

 Age
 Gender
 Civil Status
 Educational Attainment Reintegration Challenges and
 Socio-economic Status Resilience Factors of Rebel
 Employment before Returnees
joining NPA
 Figure 1. Paradigm of the Study

As shown in Figure 1, The researchers adopt the Independent Variable and Dependent Variable

(IVDV) model as the foundational framework to facilitate the comprehensive understanding and

achievement of the study's objectives.

In Figure 1, the study's architecture unfolds, symbolizing a dynamic interplay between the

factors influencing rebel returnees' experiences. The model incorporates two fundamental components:

independent variables (IV) and dependent variables (DV).

Independent Variable: Profile of Respondents:

The first critical element, encapsulated within the independent variable, meticulously examines

the demographic and contextual facets of the respondents. This encompasses diverse dimensions, such

as age, gender, civil status, educational attainment, socioeconomic status, employment before joining

the Communist Terrorist Group (GTC) and the length of their tenure within the CTG.

1. Age: Unveiling the temporal dimension of respondents’ experiences, considering how age

might impact the reintegration challenges and resilience factors.

2. Gender: Scrutinizing potential gender-specific nuances that can influence the adaptation

process.

3. Civil Status: Delving into the relational dynamics of individuals, recognizing the impact of

civil status on reintegration.

4. Educational Attainment: Evaluating the role of education in shaping perspectives and coping

mechanisms during the reintegration journey.

 5. Socioeconomic Status: Examining the economic context, understanding how socioeconomic

factors intersect with reintegration.

6. Employment Before Joining CTG: Exploring the pre-CTG employment history as a precursor

to reintegration challenges.

7. Length of Stay as CTG: Considering the duration spent within the CTG, recognizing the

potential correlation with challenges and resilience.

Dependent Variable: Reintegration Challenges and Resilience Factors of Rebel Returnees:

The second pivotal component involves the dependent variable, centering on the multifaceted

aspects of rebel returnees' experiences. This encompasses the challenges faced during the reintegration

process and the resilience factors that enable individuals to overcome these challenges.

1. Reintegration Challenges: Unpacking the array of obstacles encountered by rebel returnees as

they reintegrate into mainstream society.

2. Resilience Factors: Identifying the factors that empower returnees to navigate and overcome

reintegration challenges successfully.

This conceptual framework serves as a comprehensive lens, allowing researchers to gain

holistic insights into the intricate dynamics of rebel returnees' reintegration experiences. It seeks to

illuminate the nuanced connections between individual profiles and the subsequent challenges and

resilience factors encountered during the reintegration process.

In essence, the IVDV model, depicted in Figure 1, serves as a roadmap guiding the researchers

toward a profound understanding of the multifaceted journey of rebel returnees, fostering a nuanced

comprehension that extends beyond surface-level observations (adapted from the original framework).

Hypothesis

There is no significant relationship between the Reintegration Challenges of Rebel Returnees

when grouped according to profile.

 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter provides a detailed insight into the intricacies of the research methodology

employed in this study. The various components, such as research design, study locale, respondents,

research instruments, data gathering procedures, and statistical treatment of data, are systematically

discussed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the research process.

Research Design

The research is meticulously crafted as a descriptive study, delving into the multifaceted aspects

of reintegration challenges and resilience factors experienced by rebel returnees. A descriptive research

design is deemed optimal for its ability to capture intricate relationships between variables. This design

facilitates a comprehensive and detailed account of the phenomena under investigation, providing

valuable insights into the complexities of rebel reintegration.

Respondents of the Study

The primary focus of this research is on returnee rebels within the province of Isabela,

Philippines, spanning the last five years. The selection of respondents is crucial in obtaining a

comprehensive and representative understanding of the reintegration challenges and resilience factors

faced by individuals who have returned from rebel groups. The sampling method employed for this
study is a purposive sampling technique, ensuring that each potential respondent has an equal

opportunity to be included, thereby enhancing the study's objectivity.

The chosen respondents for this research consist of forty (40) individuals who meet the criteria

of being returnee rebels in Isabela. The researchers have carefully selected these respondents based on

their capability to provide meaningful insights into the challenges and

factors influencing their reintegration process. This selection criterion ensures that the respondents

possess the necessary experiences and perspectives relevant to the study's objectives.

Locale of the Study

Isabela, a province in the Philippines, stands out as an ideal locale for our research on the

Reintegration Challenges and Resilience Factors of Rebel Returnees. One pivotal factor contributing to

the selection of Isabela is the notable presence of rebel returnees within its community. The province

has experienced instances of conflict and insurgency, resulting in a significant population of individuals

who have returned from rebel groups. This concentration of rebel returnees provides a unique and

firsthand perspective on the challenges they encounter during the reintegration process.

In addition to the substantial number of rebel returnees, Isabela offers a diverse socio-cultural

landscape that enhances the depth and authenticity of our study. The province's historical, economic,

and geographic influences contribute to a complex community dynamic, providing a multifaceted

backdrop against which the intricacies of reintegration challenges can be thoroughly examined. By

focusing on Isabela, we aim to capture a comprehensive understanding of the experiences of rebel

returnees within a context that mirrors the broader challenges faced by such individuals across different

regions.

Practically, Isabela presents a strategic advantage for our research. Concentrating the study in

this province streamlines participant engagement and cooperation. Rebel returnees can conveniently

respond to questionnaires in their homes or chosen locations, fostering an environment conducive to

open and reflective communication. Moreover, the decision to focus on Isabela optimizes time and cost

efficiency, as it minimizes the logistical complexities associated with seeking participants across

diverse locations. In essence, Isabela emerges as a fitting and insightful locale that seamlessly aligns

with both the academic goals and the practical considerations of our research.

Research Instrument

The primary instrument to be utilized for data collection in this study is the questionnaire. This

method is chosen for its convenience and efficiency in obtaining substantial and novel insights from the

respondents. The questionnaire serves as a structured tool, allowing for a standardized approach to

gather information regarding the reintegration challenges and resilience factors faced by returnee rebels

in the province of Isabela.

The decision to employ a questionnaire is motivated by its practicality in reaching a large

number of respondents, ensuring a comprehensive data set. This method facilitates the collection of

both qualitative and quantitative data, offering a balanced and nuanced understanding of the

experiences of returnee rebels.

Part I of the questionnaire contains the profile of the respondents, while in the Part II contains

questions to determine the factors that motivated the respondents to join the CTG. Whereas in the part

III of the questionnaire contains the challenges faced by the rebel returnees during the process of

reintegration, In addition to Part IV of the questionnaire highlights the factors contributing to resilience.

Sampling Technique

A purposive sampling technique will be used to select each respondent. Forty rebel returnees

(40) will be included in the study.

Data Gathering Procedure

To achieve the study's objectives, a systematic set of procedures will be followed:

1. Questionnaire Construction: The researchers will meticulously construct a questionnaire designed to

address the research questions identified in the statement of the problem. Recommendations and

comments obtained during the finalization of the questionnaire's draft will be thoughtfully

incorporated.

2. The study, along with the developed questionnaire, will be submitted to the research adviser for

thorough validation, suggestions, and approval.

3. Authorization Process: Following the endorsement by the College Dean, the researcher will draft and

submit a formal request letter seeking approval and cooperation for the study.

4. Study Introduction to Respondents: The researchers will introduce the study's objectives to the

respondents, providing sufficient time for them to thoughtfully respond to the questionnaire.

5. Questionnaire Retrieval: Once respondents have completed the questionnaire, the researchers will

collect the survey forms for further processing.

6. Data Organization and Summarization: Collected data will undergo careful organization,

summarization, and tabulation to facilitate a structured analysis.

7. Statistical Analysis: The gathered data will be submitted to a statistician for rigorous analysis, ensuring

robust and accurate insights.

8. Data Interpretation and Reporting: The researchers will engage in a comprehensive analysis and

interpretation of the data, presenting their findings and conclusions in the results and discussion

section.

9. Review and Confirmation: Summarized data will be submitted to the research adviser for evaluation

and confirmation, ensuring alignment with research objectives and methodologies.

Statistical treatment of data

The data collected through the study instrument underwent a rigorous process of tabulation,

categorization, analysis, and interpretation, employing appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical

procedures.

1. Frequency Count and Percentage:

 It will be utilized to ascertain the Profile of the respondents, Frequency Count and Percentage

will calculate the prevalence of specific attributes among respondents. This approach provides insights

into the frequency and distribution of traits within the study sample.

2. Weighted Mean:

The Weighted Mean will be employed to quantify and interpret respondents' responses

concerning the reintegration challenges and resilience factors of the rebel returnees. This method

assigns different weights to individual responses, offering a nuanced understanding of the perceived

significance or impact of each factor. The Weighted Mean allows for a more nuanced analysis,

capturing the intensity of responses and enabling a comprehensive interpretation of the data.

3. Kruskal-Wallis Test:

The Kruskal-Wallis will be utilized to determine the differences between the challenges

encountered by the respondents when grouped according to their profile.

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