24 April, 2025 (Catbalogan City) – The Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Catbalogan City has made significant progress in processing amnesty applications.

As of this date, out of twenty-five (25) cases reviewed, eighteen (18) are being finalized for resolution and endorsement to the National Amnesty Commission (NAC) Executive Committee and the Office of the President for approval, while seven (7) will undergo further validation.

This milestone follows a marathon case conferencing session, demonstrating the LAB’s commitment to expediting the final validation of the 378 total applications received since December 2024.

The LAB members, comprising of Ms. Golda Meir Tabao, Colonel Carmelito Pangatungan, Police Colonel Eric Antonieto Mendoza, Regional Prosecutor Atty. Irwin Maraya, and Provincial Prosecutor Atty. Luz Lampasa, conducted a thorough examination of documents and narratives, validating applications with the physical presence of the applicants. The next conference is scheduled for 28-29 April, 2025.

Grounded in restorative justice, the amnesty program aims to offer former rebels a chance to rejoin society, foster healing and reconciliation, and ensure due process and protection under the law.

Moreover, successful implementation can lead to decreased hostilities and violence, increased community engagement, and pave the way for sustainable development.

The convergence of government agencies, including Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, Public Attorney’s Office, Department of Justice – National Prosecutor Service, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines 8th Infantry Division, and the Provincial Government of Samar, demonstrates a unified effort to end local communist armed conflict, promoting peace and prosperity in the region.

By expediting validated applications and continuing outreach activities, the LAB aims to cover target beneficiaries until the deadline on March 23, 2026.

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