The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) has received applications for amnesty from 433 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Visayas since December 2024, an official announced on Tuesday.
Of the total applications, 334 are being reviewed by the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) in Catbalogan City, which oversees Samar Island. The remaining 99 applications are under LAB jurisdiction in Tacloban City, responsible for Leyte Island.
During the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” press briefing held at Hotel Alejandro, NAC Chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento emphasized that granting amnesty is a significant step in helping former rebels reintegrate into society.
She noted that these individuals have endured years of hardship due to their involvement in the armed struggle against the government.
“Through amnesty, the government is giving them an opportunity to make their lives better. We hope that the services and benefits offered by the government for their reintegration will become enough reason for them to stay within the community,” Armamento told reporters.
Crimes classified as acts of rebellion are covered under the amnesty program, while private offenses, such as rape, are explicitly excluded, according to officials.
Applications undergo rigorous evaluation, including checks by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), to ensure that crimes outside the scope of amnesty are not pardoned.
LABs monitor the applicants, who may be provided with security measures depending on the nature and severity of their offenses. Armamento assured that the benefits promised to qualified applicants will be delivered efficiently.
Former rebels who qualify for the program are eligible for various government benefits, including financial assistance, livelihood support, educational scholarships for their children, and membership in government health insurance programs.
The LABs serve as the primary contact points for amnesty applicants, facilitating the submission and processing of applications.
Additionally, they conduct extensive information, education, and communication campaigns to promote the amnesty program and encourage greater participation.