Tacloban City Amnesty Board Opens New Pathways
TACLOBAN CITY — The local amnesty board in Tacloban City has officially begun hearing applications from former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels seeking reintegration into peaceful society. This initiative marks a significant step in the city’s peace-building efforts, offering a fresh start to those willing to leave armed conflict behind.
On July 8, Mayor Alfred Romualdez led the first-ever case conference of the city’s local amnesty board. As chair, Romualdez emphasized that the process is a vital part of Tacloban’s commitment to peace, reconciliation, and community healing. “This amnesty board hearing is more than a legal procedure; it’s a chance to rebuild lives, reunite families, and strengthen communities,” he said.
Review of Former Rebels’ Applications
The session reviewed applications from 10 former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA). Each applicant has surrendered and renounced their involvement in armed struggle, seeking to return to mainstream society. The hearing process is coordinated with the National Amnesty Commission (NAC) and follows the legal framework established by Proclamation No. 404, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last November.
Mayor Romualdez and the local amnesty board members, including Police Brig. Gen. Jay Cumigad, Maj. John Paner, Regional Prosecutor Irwin Maraya, and lawyers Sharilee Angela Mauro and Ivy Ann Carba, presided over the proceedings. They listened closely as each former rebel shared personal stories about their past, motivations for surrender, and efforts toward peaceful reintegration.
Commitment to Fairness and Peace
Romualdez highlighted the importance of fairness and empathy throughout the process while ensuring compliance with NAC standards. He reiterated Tacloban’s dedication to localized peace-building and the value of second chances for former insurgents and their communities. “By embracing peace, we give these individuals the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society,” he added.
The NAC commended Tacloban’s leadership in advancing the amnesty program. A statement from the commission noted, “Every story of transformation is a step toward national healing. The amnesty process offers a second chance—not just for individuals, but for communities and the country as a whole.”
Local Efforts Fuel National Healing
Tacloban is among the first local government units in Eastern Visayas to hold a formal case conference under the new national amnesty framework. The applications reviewed will be forwarded to the NAC central office for final evaluation and resolution. The commission emphasized that localized amnesty efforts are crucial for helping former rebels rebuild their lives within legal and civic responsibilities.
“Healing takes time, but it starts with listening and believing in second chances. Through the amnesty process, we are not only closing chapters of conflict—we are opening new chapters of peace,” the NAC added.
For more news and updates on Tacloban City amnesty board, visit Filipinokami.com.
