CAMP SIONGCO, DATU ODIN SINSUAT, MAGUINDANAO DEL NORTE — April 11, 2025
In a significant milestone for the Philippines’ peacebuilding efforts, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. personally led the Ceremonial Signing of a Memorandum Order authorizing the National Amnesty Commission (NAC) to issue Safe Conduct Passes to qualified amnesty applicants. The ceremony took place at the Officers’ Clubhouse in Camp Siongco, the headquarters of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division, located in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.
The move marks a critical step toward enabling former combatants — particularly those from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) — to participate freely and safely in the ongoing normalization process. With these Safe Conduct Passes, amnesty applicants facing charges related to the past armed struggle can now travel, attend important meetings, and engage with public institutions without fear of immediate arrest while their applications are being processed.
President Marcos, also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), was warmly welcomed by Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, and Maj. Gen. Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central. Full military honors were accorded upon his arrival at the camp, underscoring the national importance of the event.
Broad Scope of the Amnesty Program
The initiative falls under Proclamation Nos. 403, 404, 405, and 406, which aim to promote national reconciliation by offering amnesty to former rebels who renounce violence and return to the fold of the law. According to NAC records, a total of 2,517 amnesty applications have been received:
- 65 from the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa – Pilipinas / Revolutionary Proletarian Army / Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPM-P/RPA/ABB)
- 1,615 from the CPP-NPA-NDF
- 539 from the MILF
- 298 from the MNLF
These figures demonstrate the wide-reaching impact of the program across various fronts of past insurgencies.
Strengthening Peace in Bangsamoro
For the Bangsamoro region, this development holds profound meaning. Former mujahideen of the MILF and MNLF — many of whom still face unresolved legal cases linked to their role in the armed struggle — have long lived in fear of arrest, even while supporting peace and development efforts. Now, with the NAC authorized to issue travel permits, these individuals can actively participate in governance, peacebuilding activities, and coordination with government agencies without legal threats hanging over them.
A high-ranking official of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) expressed how the Safe Conduct Passes validate the legitimacy of their decades-long struggle, which culminated in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) and the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“Our brothers can finally breathe easier,” he said. “This isn’t just legal relief — it’s symbolic justice. The state is recognizing our past not as a crime, but as a struggle for dignity and autonomy.”
A Call for Unity and Reintegration
In his speech, President Marcos emphasized the government’s openness to reconciliation:
“The signing of this Memorandum Order is proof that your government is ready to extend a hand to those who sincerely wish to return to the rule of law. Today, I want to let you know — our doors are open. If your transformation is heartfelt, the government is ready to listen, assist, and support your reintegration.”
The initiative also aims to boost confidence in the government among former rebels and their communities, laying the groundwork for inclusive development and sustained peace.
Military Support and Symbolism
Following the signing, military officials presented the President with a display of 1,177 firearms and war materials confiscated, captured, recovered, or surrendered during military operations by the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central. This symbolic gesture further reinforced the country’s transition from armed conflict to peace.
President Marcos also took time to meet the troops in a “Talk to the Troops” session, where he acknowledged the critical role of soldiers in maintaining security and fostering peace. The day ended with a traditional “boodle fight” — a communal meal shared by the President and troops, symbolizing unity and camaraderie.
Implications for the Bangsamoro Region and Beyond
- Normalization and Reintegration: The Safe Conduct Passes will help former combatants reintegrate into society and contribute to governance and peace efforts without fear.
- Peace Dividend: Communities in conflict-affected areas may finally see the “peace dividend” through improved public safety, local development, and stronger trust in the peace process.
- Precedent for Other Groups: The national framework also sets a precedent for broader amnesty and reconciliation efforts across the country, including the communist insurgency and other armed groups.
This historic step reaffirms that peace is not just possible — it is happening. And as the government, former rebels, and communities work together, the vision of a peaceful and progressive Bangsamoro draws ever closer to reality.