27 May 2025 (Quezon City) – The National Amnesty Commission (NAC), in its continuous efforts to promote justice and reconciliation through the government’s amnesty program, inked a partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). This initiative is a significant step towards streamlining the amnesty application for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) across the country.

The Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the two agencies was held at the BJMP Headquarters in Quezon City with NAC Chairperson Leah C. Tanodra-Armamento and BJMP Chief Jail Director Ruel S. Rivera leading delegations from their respective agencies.

In her message, Chairperson Tanodra-Armamento emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law in the reintegration of former combatants into mainstream society. β€œThe MOA aims to provide eligible individuals with a second chance of reintegration into society, guided by the principles of justice, peace, and national reconciliation. Through close collaboration, we endeavor to uphold the rule of law while fostering opportunities for genuine reform and rehabilitation.”

The agreement aims to strengthen the coordination between the two agencies ultimately ensuring efficient and timely delivery of amnesty-related services to PDL applicants. It underscored commitments which include data sharing, capacity building, and strengthened partnership between the two agencies.

On his remarks, Chief Rivera expressed not only the bureau’s pledge to perform their obligations under the agreement but also its strong and full support to the amnesty program.

He further emphasized, β€œTunay po, na nabuhayan at napalakas pa ang aming pag-asa, sapagkat may National Amnesty Commission na nag-abot ng kanyang kamay upang maki-bahagi sa pagbabalikat ng pagtataguyod at pag-aangat ng kalagayan, kabuhayan, at kapakanan ng mga PDL tungo sa pambansang kapayapaan.” He added, β€œMay this cooperation for inclusivity stir and spur profound exchanges from both our agencies, not only in regard to the Amnesty Program, but about other similarly important facets of PDL welfare.”

To date, more than 400 PDLs have filed their amnesty applications. The NAC expects that this partnership will speed up the processing of applications on hand and more PDLs will be encouraged to reach out and file their applications noting the nearing deadline for filing.

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