• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
A total of 219 former Negros rebels have applied for amnesty, currently putting the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) Bacolod to top in terms of recording the most amnesty applicants, compared to other amnesty boards across the country.
The achievement highlights the communities’ commitment to peace, reconciliation, and the reintegration of former combatants into mainstream society, according to 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin.
Of the former rebels processed by the LAB Bacolod from July 8 to 12, a total of 176 were assisted by the 303rd Infantry Brigade, and 34 others helped by the 302nd Infantry Brigade. Two weeks ago, nine more former rebels, assisted by the 79th Infantry Battalion in northern Negros, also applied for amnesty.
Edralin said the increase in the number of amnesty applications not only demonstrates the effectiveness of local outreach programs, but also the collective effort in promoting dialogue and understanding among all stakeholders involved in the peace process.
He added that the Local Amnesty Board, in collaboration with various government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local community leaders, have been actively working to ensure that former rebels understand the benefits of the amnesty program.
This program aims to facilitate their smooth transition back into civilian life, providing them with access to education, livelihood opportunities, social services, and restoration of their civil rights, including their right to suffrage, Edralin further said.
Stressing that the amnesty program is not just a legal process, he said it is a pathway for former rebels to reintegrate into mainstream society and build a better future for themselves, their families and their communities.
To support the successful reintegration of former rebels, Edralin said the 303rd Infantry Brigade, in collaboration with the Local Amnesty Board Bacolod, invited public and private stakeholders to join hands in providing comprehensive support services.*
