Catbalogan city: The Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Catbalogan City, Samar has approved an additional 14 amnesty applications from former rebels during its latest case conference. The approved applications will be forwarded to the Office of the President, the only authority that can grant or deny amnesty.
According to Philippines News Agency, Golda Meir Tabao, head of the Samar Provincial Information Office who represented Governor Sharee Ann Tan during the LAB meeting, stated that LAB Catbalogan has already recommended 93 amnesty applications for the approval of the President. These 14 approved applications comply with the guidelines of Amnesty Proclamation 404, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in 2023. The proclamation grants amnesty to former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) who have committed crimes punishable under the Revised Penal Code and the Special Penal Law in furtherance of their political beliefs.
Former CPP-NPA-NDF members eligible for amnesty are those facing charges linked to their political beliefs, such as rebellion, inciting rebellion, sedition, and illegal assembly. However, those involved in serious offenses like murder, kidnapping for ransom, massacre, rape, terrorism, and various other crimes, including human rights violations, are not eligible for amnesty.
Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Samar district office has shown its willingness to collaborate with LAB Catbalogan in implementing the National Amnesty Program. In a letter-invitation to LAB Catbalogan, NBI Samar head Gil Mendoza requested an amnesty orientation for its staff to familiarize them with the program's key guidelines, implementing rules and regulations, and rules of procedure. Mendoza highlighted the crucial role of the NBI in verifying applicant information and ensuring they meet the amnesty requirements. He also stated that the NBI's support is essential in facilitating the amnesty process and promoting peace and reconciliation in the country.
Former and current communist insurgents have until March 14, 2026, to submit their applications.
