16 January, 2026 (San Mateo, Butuan City) β The Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Butuan City conducted an Amnesty Intake Activity for 29 Friends Rescued (FRs) on January 16, 2026, at the Barangay San Mateo Hall. The whole-day activity formed part of the governmentβs continuing efforts to promote peace, reconciliation, and community reintegration.
During the opening program, PLTCOL Michael B. Lozada, Acting Force Commander of the Philippine National PoliceβRegional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 13, commended the FRs for their courage in surrendering and applying for amnesty. In his message, he emphasized that those who choose this path demonstrate strength and resolve in pursuing genuine peace and long-term sustainability.
The activity was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the PNP-RMFB 13, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU)βCARAGA, and the Agusan del Norte Kagawasan 143 Peace Center. This inter-agency collaboration reflects the governmentβs steadfast commitment to providing FRs with a second chance to live peacefully and reintegrate into mainstream society.
The Amnesty Intake Activity is aligned with the National Amnesty Program under Proclamation No. 404, which grants amnesty for crimes committed in pursuit of political beliefs prior to November 22, 2023. Under the program, former members of the CPP-NPA-NDF or their front organizations may file applications until March 13, 2026, while members of the RPMP-RPA-ABB, MILF, and MNLF may apply until March 4, 2026.
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