16β17 October, 2025 (Digos City, Davao del Sur) β In partnership with the 39th Infantry βSmashβEmβ Battalion, the National Amnesty Commission (NAC), through the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Koronadal, successfully facilitated the amnesty application of 76 former members of the CPPβNPAβNDF during the two-day Amnesty Caravan held at the Gymnasium, Capitol Compound, Barangay Matti, Digos City, Davao del Sur.
The event opened with a welcome address from LTC Hector A. Estolas INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 39IB, who highlighted the significance of the amnesty program as a vital pathway for former rebels to return to the fold of the law and rebuild their lives with dignity, security, and renewed purpose.
This was followed by a message of support from Hon. Yvonne Rona Cagas, Governor of the Province of Davao del Sur, delivered by Atty. Herbert Gonzales, Provincial Administrator. He reaffirmed the provincial governmentβs steadfast commitment to sustaining peace and development across the region.
Ms. Geraldine S. Lano, Provincial Director of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) β Davao del Sur, expressed the agencyβs continued dedication to providing social protection programs and assistance to former rebels and their families.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) β Digos City, represented by PCpl Ricky Gulay on behalf of PCol Leo T. Ajero, City Director, pledged the PNPβs unwavering support for the peace and reintegration efforts within the province.
Key government agencies also participated in the activity to provide legal support and on-site services to the applicants. Atty. Rowena M. Beceira of the Public Attorneyβs Office (PAO) β Digos, together with Atty. Retzelyn Mae G. Quintana and Atty. Efren L. PiΓ±ol Jr., assured applicants of free legal assistance throughout the amnesty process.
Ms. Mariannie B. Uy, Peace Program Officer III and Ms. Lea Mae Toroctocon, Administrative Assistant lll of the Local Amnesty Board β Koronadal, discussed the procedures, requirements, and latest updates on the amnesty program, offering valuable guidance to the participants.
The two-day activity aimed to streamline the processing of amnesty applications and deliver essential government services to qualified individuals, reinforcing the national governmentβs commitment to achieving lasting peace, reconciliation, and inclusive development in Davao del Sur and its neighboring provinces.
The successful conduct of the Amnesty Caravan underscores the strong collaboration among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, national government agencies, local government units, and law enforcement partners, all working hand in hand to strengthen the countryβs ongoing peace and security initiatives.
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