09-10 October, 2025 (Makilala, North Cotabato) β In a continuing effort to promote peace, reconciliation, and reintegration in conflict-affected areas, the 39th Infantry βSmashβemβ Battalion, under the leadership of LTC Hector A. Estolas, extended its sincerest support to the successful conduct of a 2-Day Amnesty Caravan.
Held at the battalion headquarters in Poblacion, Makilala, North Cotabato, the activity gathered 91 former rebels from the CPP-NPA-NDF, who were assisted in the amnesty application process facilitated by the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Koronadal under the National Amnesty Commission (NAC).
The event was organized in close coordination with various national, provincial, and local government agencies, as well as civilian stakeholders, exemplifying the governmentβs Whole-of-Nation Approach to peace and reintegration.
Representing the Province of Cotabato, Board Member Phipps T. Bilbao, President of the Liga ng mga Barangay Provincial Federation, attended on behalf of Hon. Emmylou βLalaβ T. Mendoza, Provincial Governor. He was joined by Board Member Sittie Eljorie Antao-Balisi, both of whom reaffirmed the provincial governmentβs unwavering support for peace-building and reintegration initiatives.
From the military sector, COL Silas Trasmontero, PA, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade, represented BGEN Apollo Jun F. Lamaton, PA, Brigade Commander. In his message, Col. Trasmontero emphasized unity and the Armed Forcesβ commitment to providing peaceful avenues for former rebels to return to civilian life.
The Municipal Government of Tulunan was represented by Executive Officer Harold P. Celestial, on behalf of Mayor Lee Roy V. Villasor, CE, who underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between LGUs and the security sector in advancing long-term peace and development.
Similarly, Mr. Isidro Mainit, representing Hon. Armando Quibod, Mayor of Makilala, expressed the municipalityβs full support for the amnesty initiative and encouraged continued local participation in peace efforts.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), represented by Mr. Luis R. Caytor, RSW, reaffirmed the provinceβs commitment to extending social support services to former rebels and their families.
Meanwhile, Atty. Noreen Maglungsod-Napoles, OIC-DPA of the Public Attorneyβs Office (PAO) β Kidapawan, assured applicants of free legal assistance during and after the amnesty process.
From the Local Amnesty Board of Koronadal, Ms. Mariannie B. Uy, Peace Program Officer III, and Ms. Lea Mae Toroctocon, Administrative Assistant III, provided updates on the amnesty processing system and legal frameworks, ensuring that applicants were well-informed of their rights and the steps toward reintegration.
Throughout the two-day activity, messages of support echoed a common theme of unity, reconciliation, and shared commitment to peace across North Cotabato. The successful conduct of the Amnesty Caravan stands as a testament to the Whole-of-Nation Approach, addressing the root causes of conflict and paving the way for a peaceful and inclusive future.
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