17 November, 2025 (Kidapawan City, Cotabato) — The Provincial Government of Cotabato, led by Governor Emmylou J. Talino-Mendoza, spearheaded the ceremonial turnover of Safe Conduct Passes (SCPs) to 97 former rebels who are amnesty applicants in the Local Amnesty Board – Davao. The event was held at The Basket, Provincial Capitol, Amas, Kidapawan City.

The program opened with welcome remarks from Hon. Sittie Antao-Balisi, Provincial Board Member. The ceremony brought together key officials and partners from national and local government, security forces, and support agencies. Among those in attendance were Atty. Elisa D. Evangelista-Lapina, Director IV of LCT-FISU Mindanao, OPAPRU; MGen. Jose Vladimir R. Caraga, Commander of Joint Task Force Central / 6th Infantry Division; BGen. Apollo Jun F. Lamaton, Commander, 1002nd Brigade; BGen. Ricky P. Bunayog, Commander, 602nd Brigade; PCol. Harold S. Ramos, Chief Regional Staff, PNP XII; DILG Provincial Director Inecita C. Kionisala; Cotabato Police Acting Provincial Director PCol. Jerson Birrey; Cotabato IPMR Ex-Officio Board Member Arsenio Ampalid; President Roxas Mayor Jaime Mahimpit; PSWD Officer Arleen A. Timson; PTF-ELCAC Focal Persons Vilma Mendoza and Edgar Visabella; E-CLIP and Amnesty Program Committee Focal Person Luis Caytor; MAVC Administrator Taya U. Tagitican; battalion commanders; PTF-ELCAC committees; E-CLIP and Legal NCOs; and representatives from OPAPRU and PSWDO.

The SCPs, issued by the National Amnesty Comission, pursuant to Memorandum Order No. 36 and Proclamation Nos. 403, 404, 405, and 406 (series of 2023), provide legal protection to recipients against arrest or prosecution while their amnesty applications are under review.

The Secretariat of the Local Amnesty Board – Davao facilitated the application and issuance of these Safe Conduct Passes. They attended to the signing of the recipient’s SCP receipts during the occasion.

NAC Commissioner Jamar M. Kulayan’s message was delivered on his behalf by Mr. Cris Gaerlan, Head Secretariat of the Local Amnesty Board Davao. He emphasized the importance of the SCPs, stating:

“The Safe Conduct Pass is a vital instrument of protection. It grants temporary immunity from arrest, detention, or harassment to individuals who are in the process of applying for amnesty. This safeguard allows applicants to participate fully, openly, and safely in every stage of the amnesty process.”

With the success of today’s turnover ceremony, the National Amnesty Commission, together with Local Amnesty Boards across the country, reaffirms its commitment to supporting former rebels as they reintegrate into society—strengthening unity, promoting reconciliation, and contributing to lasting peace.