THE Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division awarded Safe Conduct Passes to 12 former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP–NPA–NDF) during an Amnesty Board meeting held Tuesday, August 19 at the 53rd Infantry Battalion headquarters.
The passes, issued by the National Amnesty Commission, offer legal protection and security to former rebels who have abandoned armed struggle and are seeking amnesty.
The initiative is part of the government’s effort to help former combatants reintegrate into society.
A total of 252 former CPP–NPA–NDF rebels have applied for amnesty within the 1st Infantry Division’s area of operations.
Major Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division, thanked the National Amnesty Commission for its assistance.
“We hope that amnesty will soon be granted not only to these twelve but also to the rest of the 252 former rebels who have applied within our area,” Barroquillo said.
He added that the 1st Infantry Division remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace and development in the region.
The event was attended by officials from the military, legal, and law enforcement sectors, including Col. Eddie M. Pilapil, acting commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade; Atty. Kenny C. Sabellano, president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Pagadian Chapter; and PCol. Bonifacio B. Arañas Jr., provincial director of the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office.
