13 March 2025 (Quezon City, Metro Manila) β€” As the amnesty application period for former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army– National Democratic Front (CPP–NPA–NDF) seeking amnesty comes to a close, the National Amnesty Commission (NAC) has recorded over 11,000 applications from the group, accounting for more than 80% of the total applications for all groups covered by the amnesty program. As of 5:00 PM on 13 March, the NAC has received a total of 13,630 amnesty applications, surpassing the initial target of 10,000.

As the deadline approached, the Local Amnesty Boards (LABs) intensified their outreach initiatives to ensure that interested and eligible individuals were given the opportunity to apply for the government’s amnesty program and begin their return to civilian life with restored rights.

In the National Capital Region, LAB NCR, with the assistance of LABs La Union and Baguio, conducted back-to-back amnesty intake activities in the cities of Manila and Caloocan on 4 and 13 March, respectively, generating over 400 applications.

Outreach efforts in the Visayas and Mindanao also contributed significantly to the total number of applications. LAB Catbalogan recorded the highest number nationwide, with over 1,800 applications, followed by LAB Butuan with over 1,100 applications from former members of the CPP–NPA–NDF.

These figures highlight the continued engagement of local communities in the government’s peace and reconciliation efforts and the effectiveness of outreach initiatives in reaching individuals who have chosen a path away from armed conflict.

As the application period closes, the NAC emphasized that the amnesty program remains an important component of the national government’s peacebuilding agenda, providing former rebels with an opportunity to reintegrate into mainstream society.

β€œThe strong response to the amnesty program shows that many of our fellow Filipinos are ready to move forward and pursue a future defined by peace and opportunity,” said NAC Chairperson Tanodra-Armamento. β€œThrough this initiative, the government continues to strengthen its commitment to reconciliation and nation-building by providing a pathway for former rebels to rebuild their lives and contribute to national development.”

The final tally of the overall applications received by the National Amnesty Commission will be released once all submissions have been processed.

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