The Landbank Lending Program for Former Rebels is a special loan assistance initiative designed for individuals who were once members of groups such as the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People’s Army (NPA), or the National Democratic Front (NDF). It is carried out in collaboration with the Task Force Balik-Loob (TFBL) and other government agencies to support the transition of former rebels into peaceful and productive members of society. The program helps former rebels fund their small businesses and agricultural projects through affordable loans. This is part of the government’s broader strategy to support reintegration through sustainable livelihood and investment opportunities.
If you or someone you know is interested, then you may check this guide for the complete information on the qualifications, requirements, and procedures for applying for this loan program.
Program Overview
The Landbank Lending Program for Former Rebels was launched in partnership with the Task Force Balik-Loob (TFBL) as part of the Philippine government’s peace and reconciliation efforts. It was created in response to the need for sustainable livelihood opportunities for those who have voluntarily returned to the fold of the law. This initiative aims to support national development by helping former rebels shift from armed struggle to lawful and productive economic participation. The program reflects the government’s commitment to providing concrete support beyond amnesty by addressing economic reintegration. Through this approach, the program helps reduce the risk of reversion to insurgency by offering practical tools for stability and income generation.
Loan Features and Terms
The program offerings include the following:
- Loan Amounts
- Direct Lending: ₱25,000 to ₱100,000 per borrower, up to 90% of the total project cost.
- Conduit Lending: Also up to 90% of the project cost. In cases of relending, the maximum remains at ₱100,000 per borrower.
- Borrower’s Equity
- 10% of the total project cost, which can be in the form of cash, labor, equipment, or facilities.
- Loan Terms
- Short-Term Loan: Repayable within 1 year, with options for monthly, quarterly, or lump-sum payments.
- Term Loan: Payable in 1 to 5 years, with payments scheduled monthly or quarterly, depending on your project’s cash flow.
- Payment methods include over-the-counter or through debit accounts.
- Interest Rates
- Direct Lending: 6% per year
- Conduit Lending: 6% per year with a maximum pass-on rate of 12% annually (or 1% monthly)
- Late Payment Charges
- A 2% monthly penalty on delayed payments starting the day after the due date.
How Much Can You Borrow?
Depending on your project and repayment capacity, you can borrow from ₱25,000 to ₱100,000 under both Direct and Conduit Lending. In both types of loans, the maximum loanable amount must not exceed 90% of your total project cost.
You are required to shoulder the remaining 10% equity, which can be in the form of cash or resources such as labor, tools, or facilities.
Where Can the Loan Be Used?
Qualified borrowers can use the loan for small enterprises or agricultural ventures.
Small Business Examples:
- Sari-sari store or variety shop
- Bakery
- Tailoring or dressmaking
- Barbershop or parlor
- Welding services
- Repair shop (machine or appliance)
- Furniture production
Agriculture-Based Projects:
- Crop farming
- Goat or cattle raising
- Pig farming
- Chicken farming
- Fishpond operation (tilapia or bangus)
Who Can Apply for the Lending Program?
The following groups are the target beneficiaries for this program. However, belonging to the group does not mean automatic loan approval as they are also expected to at least satisfy the following qualifying requirements:
- Individual Former Rebels (FR): Eligible applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Certified by the Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee (JAPIC) as a former rebel.
- At least 21 years old.
- Have a viable business or livelihood project accepted under Landbank’s standards.
- Must have no pending legal cases.
- If the former rebel is underage or has a legal case, an immediate family member (spouse, partner, child, or sibling) may apply as a co-maker.
- Cooperatives or Associations: Cooperatives or associations may apply if:
- They are registered with the appropriate government agency.
- They have certified regular FR members recognized by JAPIC.
- Their proposed business or livelihood project aligns with Landbank standards, whether for group or individual members.
Application Requirements
Here’s a simplified list of requirements to guide your application process:
Individual Applicants
- JAPIC Certification as a former rebel
- Valid ID showing the applicant is 21 years old or above
- Business or livelihood project proposal
- No pending legal case (if there is, an eligible family co-maker is required)
- Co-maker must be a spouse, partner, child, or sibling
For Cooperatives or Associations
- Proof of registration with a government agency
- List of regular, JAPIC-certified former rebel members
- Livelihood or business proposal aligned with Landbank standards
Mandatory Guarantee Coverage
To minimize risk, all loans under this program require government guarantee fund coverage for unsecured loans.
The premium can either be:
- Paid directly by the borrower, or
- Automatically deducted from the loan proceeds.
This guarantee helps protect the borrower and the bank from risk, especially for livelihood projects without formal collateral.
Loan Guarantee Requirements
Borrowers are required to secure coverage from government guarantee funds. The premium for this can be paid upfront by the borrower or deducted from the loan proceeds.
For Individual Borrowers:
- Assignment of PCIC (Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation) claims, if available.
- Government guarantee coverage from agencies such as the Agricultural Guarantee Fund Pool or Small Business Corporation.
For Cooperatives/Associations:
- Assignment of members’ promissory notes and collaterals, if applicable.
- Assignment of PCIC claims and government guarantee claims.
How to Apply
To apply, simply follow these steps:
Step 1. Prepare your requirements
Make sure you have your JAPIC certificate, ID, and business proposal ready. Cooperatives must prepare their registration documents and member list.
Step 2. Visit the nearest Landbank Lending Center
Bring your documents and discuss your proposal with a loan officer.
Step 3. Submit your application
The loan officer will help guide you through the process of submitting your documents, evaluating your project, and finalizing the loan amount.
Step 4. Wait for processing and approval
Landbank will assess your application and notify you regarding the result. Upon approval, the funds will be released based on your payment and collateral arrangements.
Where to Get and Submit the Application Forms
Application forms for the Landbank Lending Program for Former Rebels are available at any Landbank Lending Center nationwide. Interested applicants should visit the nearest branch to obtain the forms and consult with a loan officer for assistance in completing the requirements. Once filled out, the forms and supporting documents must be submitted directly to the same Lending Center for processing and evaluation.
Cost and Processing Timelines
Loan processing usually takes around 45 calendar days once all required documents are submitted, though simple, smaller loans may be approved sooner.
As for costs, borrowers must provide a 10% equity share of the project value, plus cover the guarantee premium from government funds—which can either be paid out‑of‑pocket or deducted from the loan proceeds. Additional charges may include standard fees for credit investigation (CI/BI), property appraisal, and documentary stamp tax if applicable.
Important Reminders
Here are some important reminders for those planning to apply for the Landbank Lending Program for Former Rebels:
- Make sure you or your group is certified by JAPIC before applying.
- Prepare a clear and viable business or livelihood proposal.
- A co-maker is required for individual applicants, especially if underage or with legal issues.
- Cooperatives or associations must be duly registered with the proper government agency.
- Keep your documents complete to avoid delays in processing.
- Guarantee coverage is mandatory and may be deducted from your loan proceeds.
- Submit your application only at official Landbank Lending Centers.
- In case of missed payment, you’ll be charged a 2% monthly penalty starting the day after the due date.
- In case the business fails, Landbank may coordinate with you for possible restructuring, but the loan remains payable.
- Loan officers at the branch can help guide you through the application steps.
- Once the loan is approved, Landbank will contact you directly through the details you provided in your application.
Video: Freedom Residence Awarding to Former Rebels
Reintegrating former rebels into society is a complex journey that requires steady support and real opportunities. The Landbank Lending Program for Former Rebels is especially designed to support them in building a peaceful future through livelihood and small business development. Whether you’re starting a sari-sari store or an agricultural venture, this loan gives you practical support in the form of loanable capital with flexible repayment options. The program also supports cooperatives, providing more opportunities for community-based reintegration. The National Housing Authority (NHA) and Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) also offer similar practical assistance programs to help these former rebels start over.
Watch this video to learn how these initiatives are making a difference in the lives of returning citizens.
Contact Information
To learn more about the program or get personal guidance, reach out to:
Programs Management Department I
- 27th Floor, Landbank Plaza, 1598 M.H. del Pilar cor. Dr. J. Quintos Sts., Malate, Manila
- Tel: (+632) 8405-7450
- Fax: (+632) 8528-8542
- Official Website: www.Landbank.com
- Follow Landbank on social media:
- Facebook: @Landbankofficial
- Twitter: @LBP_Official
For other concerns, you may also check the brochure for the program: Landbank Lending Program for Former Rebels