PNP, NAC ink deal to ensure safety of ex-rebels

Posted to GMA News Online (Jun 11, 2024): PNP, NAC ink deal to ensure safety of ex-rebels seeking amnesty (By ANNA FELICIA BAJO)

Photo: National Amnesty Commission

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Amnesty Commission (NAC) have signed a memorandum of agreement to ensure the security of individuals who are applying for the government's amnesty program.

“Aside from collaboration and coordination, the MOA aims to ensure the safety and security of individuals applying for amnesty [through] the issuance and recognition of the Provisional Safe Conduct Pass (PSCP) and the Safe Conduct Pass (SCP), which [are] effective until the President [acts] on the application for amnesty, and to enhance public awareness to contribute to long-term peace,'' NAC Chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento said in a press release.

The NAC said the deal focuses on the nurturing of a climate conducive to peace and reconciliation as well as the reintegration of members from the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA- ABB), former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and their front organizations, members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), into mainstream society.

Under the agreement, the police may assist the NAC in vetting the information of the applicants for amnesty at the local and/or national level pursuant to its powers and functions under Republic Act 6975, as amended by RA 8851.

The PNP will also acknowledge the safe conduct passes issued by the NAC so that the applicants will have peace of mind that they will not be arrested while their applications for amnesty are in process, unless they are intended to be arrested for the commission of acts that are not covered by the government's amnesty program.

PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil underscored the need to reaffirm the commitment to the rule of law, human rights, and the pursuit of peace.

''Together, we aim to promote healing and reconciliation in our country, creating an environment where former adversaries can find common ground and build a better future for everyone,'' Marbil said.

In April, President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. ordered the immediate implementation of the amnesty program for the remaining communist rebels.

The NAC has formed nine field offices across the country and plans to create 10 more to accommodate rebels availing themselves of the government’s amnesty program. —VBL, GMA Integrated News

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