Thousands of Former Rebels Seek Amnesty Nationwide
A total of 2,772 former rebels from across the Philippines have submitted amnesty applications through local amnesty boards (LABs), according to government reports released on May 23. This surge in applications highlights the growing interest in the government’s amnesty program aimed at resolving past political conflicts.
Among the applicants, 1,858 were former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). They represent the largest group seeking amnesty to clear their criminal records related to past political offenses. In addition, 545 ex-fighters from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and 303 former members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) also filed applications. Furthermore, 66 individuals from the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB) submitted their requests as well.
Top Local Amnesty Boards Receive Most Applications
The Local Amnesty Board in Catbalogan City, Samar, recorded the highest number of applicants with 378. It was followed by the National Capital Region LAB with 282, Bacolod with 262, and Pagadian with 243. Other notable numbers came from Basilan with 241, Cotabato with 240, Davao with 236, and Iloilo with 218 applicants.
The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) began accepting applications on March 4, 2024, after Congress approved Presidential Proclamations 403, 405, and 406, granting amnesty to members of RPMP-RPA-ABB, MILF, and MNLF respectively. Amnesty for CPP-NPA-NDF members was approved later, on March 13, 2024, under Proclamation No. 404.
Deadlines and Filing Procedures for Amnesty Applications
Applicants must submit their forms to the Local Amnesty Board closest to their residence. Those from RPMP-RPA-ABB, MILF, and MNLF groups have until March 4, 2026, to file their applications. Meanwhile, former CPP-NPA-NDF members or their affiliated groups have until March 13, 2026.
Amnesty Forum in Butuan Encourages Participation
To boost awareness and participation, the Butuan LAB organized its first amnesty forum last Thursday. The event emphasized the role of community cooperation and local government support in fostering lasting peace.
Agusan del Norte’s governor, who attended the forum, voiced strong support for the program. She said, “What I want to happen [is] that we will be able to deliver the commitment of the government because we ask them (former rebels) to come back to government. We want a LAB that is optimally functioning so they (former rebels) can go back to having normal lives.”
The governor also pledged to lead the local board, providing necessary office space, equipment, additional manpower, and other support to ensure the program’s success.
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