Nine former rebels in Northern Samar and six others in Leyte have been issued safe conduct passes (SCPs), signaling continued progress in the government’s Amnesty Program for former Communist rebels.
SCPs are documents that grant temporary protection from arrest, detention, or prosecution for covered offenses, allowing amnestees safe passage and freedom to complete their amnesty applications and reintegrate into society.
In Northern Samar, the National Amnesty Commission (NAC), through the Local Amnesty Board (LAB)–Catbalogan, released SCPs to nine beneficiaries during a ceremony held Monday at the headquarters of the Philippine Army's (PA) 19th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Opon in Catubig.
The activity, conducted in partnership with the PA’s 803rd Infantry Brigade and the Northern Samar Provincial Police Office, formed part of intensified efforts to support former rebels who have signified their return to mainstream society.
To date, 69 former rebels supervised by the 19th IB have filed for amnesty, according to local officials.
Of these, 23 have already been issued SCPs, including the nine new recipients. Fourteen more applicants are expected to receive their passes in the coming days.
Lt. Col. Ricky James Rosalejos, commander of the 19th IB, welcomed the beneficiaries and emphasized the role of the amnesty program in strengthening peace and stability in the province.
On the other hand, the LAB–Tacloban issued SCPs to six applicants in Tacloban City last December 4.
LAB–Tacloban acknowledged the support of city police chief P/Col. Noelito Getigan for ensuring a smooth and orderly evaluation, as well as Bhea Janine Gozo, peace program officer and LAB–Tacloban secretary, for coordinating documentation and assisting applicants throughout the process.
(With report from PNA)
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