TACLOBAN CITY — The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) has pledged its support to the provincial government of Northern Samar in processing amnesty applications for former rebels in the province.
Lawyer Ma. Victoria Cardona, a consultant to the NAC’s Office of the Executive Director, made this commitment during her recent visit to Northern Samar, where she met with former rebels in Catarman and Mondragon.
Cardona stated that the NAC would collaborate with the provincial government to streamline the amnesty application process, emphasizing the importance of the program and assuring applicants of a smooth experience.
“We will return to discuss the process with you — how to apply, what requirements are needed. We will make the process as easy as we can because this program is crucial for achieving stability in our region. We will ensure that the process is thorough and that deserving individuals are granted amnesty,” she stated.
Cardona was accompanied by Imelda Bonifacio, program manager of Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPPRU) Eastern Visayas, and Col. Ericson Rosanna, deputy brigade commander of the 803rd Brigade, in her visits to the Darangpan Center in Catarman and Kauswagan Village in Barangay Cablangan, Mondragon.
The amnesty program is a significant initiative in the government’s efforts to promote long-term stability and support the reintegration of former rebels.
It provides a legal pathway for former members of political groups, including the CPP-NPA-NDF, to reintegrate into society without facing prosecution for past political offenses.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
