Basilan, Philippines – October 27, 2024
In a significant outreach effort, the Local Amnesty Boards (LAB) of Basilan and Pagadian, alongside the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and Member of Parliament Baileng Mantawil, conducted joint jail visits on October 24-25, 2024. Partnering with the Peace Security and Reconciliation Office (PSRO), the initiative aimed to assist Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in applying for amnesty, focusing particularly on those with affiliations to Moro and other insurgent groups.
The visit spanned three major detention facilities: Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Jail in Pagadian City, Zamboanga City Jail-Male Dormitory, and the San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SRPPF) in Zamboanga City. PSRO Deputy Director Malik Caril was present to oversee application processes and provide critical support, particularly in verifying affiliations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
During these visits, PDLs received comprehensive guidance on the government’s amnesty program, including the necessary steps for application submission. The LAB teams also conducted informational sessions on the benefits and requirements of the program, ensuring clarity for all applicants.
A total of 56 PDLs applied for amnesty, including individuals with confirmed affiliations to the MILF, MNLF, and CPP-NPA-NDF. The assistance extended by the LABs underscores an ongoing commitment to peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts, contributing to reintegration pathways for those who qualify.
This initiative forms part of the government’s broader efforts to support the reformation and rehabilitation of former combatants, fostering long-term peace and stability across regions impacted by conflict.
