Safe Conduct Passes Granted to Former Rebels
MANILA, Philippines — The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) has taken a significant step in advancing peace by granting safe conduct passes to 21 former rebels in Butuan City. This move reflects a strong government commitment to supporting those who choose to abandon armed conflict and reintegrate into society.
During a ceremony held on July 1, 2025, at the 402nd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Bancasi, Butuan City, the NAC, chaired by Leah Tanodra-Armamento, officially issued safe conduct passes to these former insurgents. This initiative is part of the government’s broader peace and reintegration efforts in conflict-affected areas.
The 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office emphasized that these safe conduct passes provide legal protection, allowing former rebels free movement while their amnesty applications are processed. However, the passes do not cover crimes excluded from the amnesty or offenses committed after the amnesty proclamation.
Government and Security Officials Support Peace Efforts
Key officials attended the event, including Brig. Gen. Adolfo Espuelas Jr., commander of the 402nd Infantry Brigade; Governor Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante of Agusan del Norte; and Police Regional Office-13 director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano. Local Amnesty Board members also participated, helping facilitate the official oath-taking of the former rebels.
Brig. Gen. Espuelas highlighted the importance of the safe conduct passes in advancing peace. “The issuance of the safe conduct pass is part of the government’s commitment to the amnesty program, providing temporary legal protection to former rebels as their applications are being processed,” he said. He further noted that the initiative embodies a whole-of-nation approach to ending local armed conflict and supports the transformation of former insurgents into peaceful, productive citizens.
Understanding Limitations of Safe Conduct Passes
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Memorandum Order No. 36 in April, enabling the NAC to issue safe conduct passes to amnesty applicants who are not detained and have expressed intent to apply. Applicants can also authorize a trusted person to apply for a provisional safe conduct pass on their behalf before submitting the full application.
The provisional pass is valid for 15 days within the issuing province or region, giving applicants time to complete their paperwork. These passes protect holders from arrest, detention, and prosecution for crimes covered by the amnesty, but do not guarantee release if there is a valid arrest warrant. Moreover, they do not permit possession of unlicensed firearms nor automatically grant amnesty.
The NAC retains the authority to impose additional conditions on the passes to ensure proper implementation.
Unified Efforts Needed for Lasting Peace
Maj. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division, called on communities to support former rebels in their reintegration. He said that collaborative efforts are essential to achieving enduring peace in Northern Mindanao and the Caraga region, where armed conflict has deeply affected many lives.
The safe conduct passes symbolize hope and a fresh start for those leaving behind violence. The government’s continuing programs aim to build a peaceful, inclusive society where former insurgents can thrive as contributing members.
For more news and updates on safe conduct passes, visit Filipinokami.com.