Pagadian City – The Local Amnesty Board (LAB), of this city, has received 234 applications for amnesty grants from former rebels, now referred to as “friends rescued,” as of September this year. This update was shared by Abdelnajar Jauhari, Peace Program Officer II, during the recent “Kapihan sa PIA ug DXPR” radio program.
The amnesty program, part of the national government’s initiatives, allows individuals to have their political cases dismissed. Amnesty is generally granted for political crimes committed against the state, including treason, sedition, and rebellion.
The following groups have been granted amnesty under Proclamation Nos. 403, 404, 405, and 406, respectively: Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB); Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF); Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
Jauhari acknowledged some challenges in processing applications, particularly when applicants are unsure of their legal status.
“Naa tay mga friends rescued nga usahay dili sila kabalo og naa ba silay kaso. Diha ta malisuran og unsay ilang status. Maayo na lang naa ta coordination sa laing [ahensya sa] gobyerno nga tabangan ta nga i-background check sila,” (we have friends rescued who sometimes don’t know if they have a case. This is where we struggle to determine their status. It’s fortunate that we have coordination with other government agencies to assist with background checks.) he said.
The LAB has partnered with the Department of Justice, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the National Bureau of Investigation to expedite this process.
Currently, the applications are undergoing verification, according to Jauhari. This process will take time before the final granting of amnesty, which will be signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Lastly, the LAB encouraged more ‘friends rescued’ to apply for amnesty, emphasizing that the program will be available for only the next two years, until 2026.
Those interested in applying for amnesty are encouraged to visit their nearest Amnesty Board office. Application forms are available on the official Facebook page of the National Amnesty Commission. (JPA/HTB)
(Source: PIA Zamboanga del Sur)