Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) recently participated in a consultation workshop to develop a standardized Deradicalization (DERAD) After-Care Program for Former Rebels (FRs). This activity was organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Bukidnon on February 18, 2025, at the PPDO Conference Room.
Six faculty members from the Department of Social Sciences and Behavioral Sciences were invited to participate, bringing their expertise in socio-political dynamics and rehabilitation strategies. Vice President for Administration Prof. Hermie P. Pava, serving as the university’s Team Leader and Focal Person, also joined the consultation workshop.
Prof. Pava expressed gratitude for the continued collaboration: “Thank you so much, DILG Bukidnon, Provincial Government of Bukidnon, and ECLIP, for this amazing yet continuing partnership in the DERAD efforts of our FRs. CMU’s unceasing commitment and support will always be there through the guidance of our University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe and the involvement of our academic experts.”
CMU has been a key partner in the DERAD program through the formulation of modules focusing on psychosocial and ideological aspects. The consultation workshop aimed to finalize an evaluation instrument to assess whether FRs are ready for mainstreaming and reintegration into society.
In DILG’s official Facebook Page, DILG Provincial Director Rhona Pedraza-Abadilla underscored the importance of collective efforts in sustaining peace and ensuring the successful reintegration of FRs following the 60-day deradicalization process. The initiative builds on Bukidnon’s first localized deradicalization program, focusing on security, economic, and social support to prevent recidivism.
The first batch of FRs who underwent DERAD focused primarily on psychosocial and ideological aspects, laying the groundwork for comprehensive reintegration efforts. Prof. Pava shared that before the formal conduct of the deradicalization program, CMU played a crucial role in administering psychological tests for former rebels, addressing their physical, moral, spiritual, psychosocial, and ideological needs, ensuring their smooth transition in the society.
As a long-time partner of DILG Bukidnon, CMU has actively contributed to capacity-building programs, community-based interventions, and research initiatives supporting peace and development. [Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from Prof. Hermie P. Pava]
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Photos from DILG Bukidnon
