The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) in Manila has announced that it has now received more than 2,000 applications for amnesty, facilitated through its network of 19 Local Amnesty Boards (LABs). According to a recent statement, four of these LABs have successfully processed 45 applications, which are now under review and expected to be sent to the Office of the President for final approval soon.
This achievement is seen as a crucial advancement in the nation’s efforts to foster peace and reconciliation. The NAC is responsible for handling amnesty applications from members of various groups, including the Rebolusyonaryong Partidong Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP/RPA/ABB), former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), and members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
Leah Tanodra-Armamento, the chairperson of NAC, emphasized the significance of the amnesty program, describing it as a compassionate initiative by the President. She highlighted that the program offers applicants a chance to reintegrate into society, live lawfully, and benefit from various government services.
The NAC has established LABs in strategic locations across the country, including the National Capital Region, Pampanga, La Union, Baguio, Isabela, Albay, Quezon, Iloilo, Bacolod, Catbalogan, Tacloban, Pagadian, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Davao, Jolo (Sulu), Basilan, Koronadal, and Butuan. Plans are underway to open two more LABs in the Mimaropa region and Bohol.
These LABs not only receive applications but also engage in extensive outreach efforts to educate the public about the amnesty program. Their activities include visiting campsites in collaboration with other government and non-government organizations, and conducting jail visits to assist those in detention with their applications.
The NAC’s ultimate goal is to help restore the civil and political rights of former rebels and combatants, thereby contributing to the establishment of enduring peace in the country.