24 March 2025 (Catbalogan City) – The Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Catbalogan City facilitated an amnesty orientation and on-site acceptance of 29 applicants in collaboration with Northern Samar-based 74th Infantry Battalion of the 2nd Infantry Division, led by Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Abrenica.

During the orientation, family members were invited to witness the process and participate in an open forum, which aimed to disseminate information to a wider audience. The open forum was assisted by Attorney Arman O. Giray and Mr. Juvan C. Mendez from the Public Attorney’s Office stationed in Laoang, Northern Samar.

The event also saw the participation of local government units, with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office providing clarifications on programs for former rebels and their families. Mayor Ronn Michael Tejan of LGU Mapanas expressed support for the initiative.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Area Management Unit Eastern Visayas, along with the SPTs, facilitated coordination among participating agencies and provided personal attestations on the applicants’ involvement in preparing their narratives.

Governor Sharee Ann T. Tan, chairperson of LAB Catbalogan, is monitoring the progress of the applications and providing logistical support to the LAB Secretariat. She commended the active participation of LAB members, particularly the Regional/Provincial Prosecutor and the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police, in the amnesty process.

As of writing, 363 applicants are being vetted by law enforcement agencies for proper identification and documentation.

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