ILOILO City – Approximately 300 former rebels from Panay and Negros islands have submitted applications for the government’s amnesty program, according to the Local Amnesty Boards (LAB).
The application process, which started on July 8, saw significant participation, particularly from Negros Island where 210 individuals were assisted by the 302nd and 303rd Infantry Brigades of the Philippine Army in collaboration with LAB.
An additional 90 applications came from Panay Island.
The amnesty application period, scheduled from July 8 to 12, requires applicants to participate in an assessment and an Amnesty Information Awareness Drive.
This initiative, as explained by Lieutenant Colonel Genesis Gabrido, chief of the 3rd Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO), is designed to equip former rebels with necessary knowledge about the amnesty process before they submit their formal applications.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in November 2023, amended Executive Order No. 125 with Executive Order No. 47, expanding the National Amnesty Commission’s mandate to process applications under Proclamations 403, 404, and 406. These proclamations aim to provide amnesty to former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) who committed crimes in pursuit of political beliefs prior to November 22, 2023.
The offenses eligible for amnesty include rebellion, insurrection, disloyalty by public officers, and other related crimes under the Revised Penal Code and Special Penal laws.
Applicants must personally, or through an authorized representative, submit a completed sworn application form and supporting documents to the National Amnesty Commission via the nearest LAB by March 4, 2026.
Major General Marion Sison, commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), praised the efforts of LABs in Bacolod and Iloilo for their commitment to facilitating the amnesty applications. He said the collaborative efforts are a reflection of the government’s dedication to reconciliation and peace-building in the region.
Sison also urged remaining insurgents to disarm, surrender, and take advantage of the amnesty program to reintegrate into society and reunite with their families. He emphasized the opportunity for these individuals to start anew and contribute to a peaceful and productive community.
“For the families of terrorist members, this is a chance to help your loved ones transform their lives. Encourage them to surrender and avail themselves of the amnesty to pave the way for a renewed and peaceful existence,” Sison added./PN
