01 December, 2025 (Lamitan City, Basilan) β The Local Amnesty BoardβBasilan successfully facilitated the turnover of Safe Conduct Passes (SCPs) to fifty-four (54) amnesty applicantsβfifty-two (52) from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and two (2) from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF)βin a ceremony held at the Ra’ayat Hall of the Basilan Government Center (BGC) in Sta. Clara, Lamitan City.
The symbolic turnover was led by Basilan Peopleβs Governor Mujiv Hataman, together with LAB Chairperson and Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman. They were joined by LAB members Deputy Brigade Commander Colonel Philip Fagel of the 1101st Infantry βGagandilanβ Brigade; Basilan Police Provincial Office Director, Police Colonel Cerrazid Umabong; Atty. Alman-Najar Namla of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines; and Brigadier General Frederick Sales, outgoing LAB member representing the AFP. MILF and MNLF leaders were also present, along with representatives from the Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and various civil society organizations (CSOs). Their participation underscored the unified commitment of local leaders, security sectors, and civil society partners to supporting the national governmentβs ongoing peace and reintegration initiatives.
In their messages, the Provincial Local Chief Executive and LAB members expressed strong support for the National Amnesty Commission and reaffirmed their steadfast commitment as partners in the peace process. They emphasized that the Safe Conduct Pass is more than a formal documentβit is a vital tool that ensures applicants can safely and freely move as they process their amnesty applications, submit required documents, and attend interviews and conferences. They likewise encouraged members of the MILF and MNLF to avail themselves of the governmentβs amnesty program, especially with the 100-day countdown underway toward the March 4, 2026 application deadline.
An MILF leader who received a Safe Conduct Pass also spoke during the event, conveying deep gratitude and sharing how the SCP has provided not only safety and accessibility but also a profound sense of liberation after years of uncertainty.
To date, LAB Basilan has turned over a total of fifty-nine (59) Safe Conduct Passes to amnesty applicants, with the National Amnesty Commission serving as the issuing authority. The ceremony marks a significant milestone in Basilanβs ongoing efforts to promote peace, reintegration, and long-term stability across the province and beyond.
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