AFP: Stopping KBP funding may set back counter-insurgency

MANILA, Philippines - The military warned the administration yesterday that discontinuing funding for the Kalayaan Barangay Program (KBP) could jeopardize counter-insurgency efforts.

Armed Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr. said removing the KBP’s budget would affect civil-military operations in rebel-infested areas.

“There will be an effect in the counter-insurgency effort in some areas... because the end in view of the counter-insurgency effort is to show the people that progress goes into their areas,” he said. 

“If this does not come we will be questioned.”

Speaking to reporters, Mabanta said the lack of developmental projects would make it easier for rebels to recruit new members.

“There would be no evidences of government projects and influence in these remote areas,” he said.

Mabanta said the KBP’s abolition would require the military to coordinate with other agencies to ensure that projects are undertaken.

“The instruction... is coordinate with agencies such as the LWUA (Local Water Utilities Administration), DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) and the Department of Education so we would be able to get hold of these projects and implement it in areas where rebels thrive,” he said.

The KBP is comprised of construction of school buildings, water systems, and farm-to-market roads.

The government had allotted P1 billion per year to KBP from 2008 to 2010.

However, President Aquino decided to terminate the program next year.