CAMP SANG-AN, Zamboanga del Sur – Twelve former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army–National Democratic Front (CPP–NPA–NDF) were granted Safe Conduct Passes during an Amnesty Board Meeting held on August 19, 2025, at the Headquarters of the 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur.
The move forms part of the government’s continuing efforts to reintegrate former rebels into mainstream society. To date, a total of 252 former rebels have already filed their amnesty applications before the Local Amnesty Boards operating within the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division’s jurisdiction.
The awarding ceremony was attended by representatives from various military, police, and legal institutions. Among them were Col. Eddie M. Pilapil, Acting Commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade; Atty. Kenny C. Sabellano, President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Pagadian Chapter; Prosecutors Dennis F. Araojo and Mary Ann W. Tugbang-Torres; and PCOL Bonifacio B. Arañas Jr., Provincial Director of the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, lauded the efforts of the National Amnesty Commission in facilitating the process and expressed optimism that amnesty will soon be granted not only to the 12 beneficiaries but also to the hundreds of others seeking a fresh start.
“This milestone is a testament to the government’s sincere commitment to peace and reconciliation,” Barroquillo said, emphasizing the importance of giving former rebels the opportunity to rebuild their lives free from armed struggle.
The Safe Conduct Pass allows the recipients temporary protection and freedom of movement while their amnesty applications undergo evaluation, serving as an essential step toward their eventual reintegration.