11 December, 2025 (Cagayan de Oro City) – The Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Cagayan de Oro, represented by Peace Program Officer III Abigail F. Lai participated in the Women’s Summit for Former Women Combatants held at the Chali Beach Resort in Cagayan de Oro City on December 11, 2025.

The summit brought together former women combatants representing the Bangsa Bae of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), Bangsamoro Islamic Women Auxilliary Brigade (BIWAB) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Former Rebels of the CPP NPA NDF, widows, mothers and wives of former violent extremists (FVEs) coming from the areas of Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Oriental and Butuan City.

With its theme “Mga Babae’ng Minsan Humawak ng Baril at Makibaka, Ngayon ay Tinatahak ang Buhay na Mapayapa at May Dignidad” (“Women Who Once Took up Arms & Fought, Now Tread the Path of a Peaceful & Dignified Life”), centered on the stories of healing and resilience that have carried them through a life of conflict and turmoil to one of peace and stability. Their shared reflections and insights forged a bond of solidarity and oneness, an understanding of common struggles and the strength that got them through all the pain of violence.

From the perspective of former combatants and the government sector – including those who are now in the service of the flag – the gathering created a safe space for all of these women to wholeheartedly embrace and celebrate their shared experiences.

This event is part of the 18-month project “We Care:Empowering Former Women Combatants & Revolutionaries for a Dignified Transition Into Civilian Life” spearheaded by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality & the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and Women’s Peace & Humanitarian Fund (WPHF) in partnership with Pakigdait Inc.

LAB CDO presented the Amnesty Program as one of the pathways towards reintegration and healing. Also present is DILG 10 Regional Director and LAB CDO Member Bruce A. Colao.

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