Matuguinao: A total of 116 former rebels (FRs) from Matuguinao, Samar have formally applied for amnesty after completely abandoning the communist ideology. The former rebels filed for amnesty during a two-day orientation and intake activity organized by the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) - Catbalogan, in partnership with the 43rd Infantry Battalion and the local government of Matuguinao.

According to Philippines News Agency, the activity that concluded in Barangay Mabuligon on Thursday was led by Mayor Aran Boller. The LAB secretariat provided a comprehensive briefing on the government's amnesty program, including step-by-step procedures from initial application to endorsement to the Office of the President. The panel also clarified which offenses are covered by the amnesty proclamation and which are excluded.

On the first day alone, 82 FRs submitted their applications, with 34 more completing their intake activity the following day. All applicants took their oath of allegiance before Public Attorney's Office lawyers, who ensured that each participant fully understood the commitments associated with the amnesty program.

In a phone interview on Friday, Boller emphasized the significance of the initiative in sustaining peace gains in one of Samar's previously insurgency-affected areas. "The strong turnout is an encouraging indication of the former rebels' determination to clear their names and reintegrate into mainstream society as productive, law-abiding citizens," he said. Boller also noted that the initiative reflects the municipal government's firm commitment to ending local insurgency and providing sustainable pathways for former rebels to rebuild their lives within their communities.