04 December 2025 (Catubig, Northern Samar) – The Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Catbalogan, Samar issued nine Safe Conduct Passes (SCPs) to former rebels who have applied for amnesty. The activity was held at the 19th Infantry “Commando” Battalion in Barangay Opong, Catubig, Northern Samar.

An SCP is a document issued by the National Amnesty Commission to applicants who are not under detention, ensuring their safe passage while their amnesty applications await the President’s decision, unless earlier revoked.

The LAB Secretariat was joined by Deputy Brigade Commander Colonel Ericson Rosana of the 803rd Brigade; Police Lieutenant Colonel Joel Nicha of the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office; Ms. Imelda Bonifacio, Program Manager I of AMU–Eastern Visayas, OPAPRU; and Lieutenant Colonel Ricky James Rosalejos, Commander of the 19th Infantry Battalion.

LtCol Rosalejos welcomed all guests and beneficiaries. Afterward, LAB Secretariat Head, Jazmine Odyssa Lutao, presented the SCP guidelines before the distribution of the passes.

One former rebel shared her story, noting that she is now a graduating senior high school student aspiring to become a lawyer. Ms. Bonifacio discussed ongoing programs for former rebels and their families. PLtCol Nicha emphasized that the SCP represents “trust, transformation, and renewed hope,” while Colonel Rosana highlighted that it provides “security and safe passage,” easing fears of arrest for past cases. He added that recipients are now free community members, though with certain limitations, and affirmed that the initiative supports “just and lasting peace.”

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