27 January, 2026 (Borongan, Eastern Samar) – Furthering the momentum toward lasting peace, the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Catbalogan, Samar, issued 13 Safe Conduct Passes (SCPs) to β€œfriends rescued” (FRs) who had previously submitted amnesty application. The distribution took place during a ceremony held in partnership with the 63rd Infantry ‘Hinirang’ Battalion in Brgy. Lalawigan.

The ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including Engr. Joselito B. Mutia (Provincial Peace and Order Focal) of the Eastern Samar Provincial Government Office; Police Colonel Ernesto Macasil, Provincial Director of the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office (ESPPO); Lieutenant Colonel Marillo Bersabe, Executive Office of the 502nd Combat Engineering Battalion; and Lieutenant Colonel Ricky James Rosalejos, Commanding Officer of the 63rd Infantry Battalion.

During the event, Engr. Mutia delivered a message from Eastern Samar Governor Ralph Vincent Evardone, stating: β€œPeace is not achieved overnight, nor is it built through force alone. It is earned through courage, compassion, and the collective will to heal.” He further called for all sectors to support the amnesty program.

Prior to the distribution, the LAB Secretariat conducted a comprehensive briefing on the guidelines and responsibilities associated with the SCP.

Following the ceremony, an intake session was held for thirteen new FRs who formally filed their amnesty applications. They took their Oath of Allegiance before Atty. Emmanuel Apellado and Atty Peter Daniel Bugtas from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO).

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