DAVAO CITY — A total of 60 former rebels under Kalinaw Southeastern Mindanao (Kalinaw-SEMR) took part in a four-day Amnesty Application Workshop held in Marilog, Davao City, from February 23 to 26, 2026. The activity, aimed at helping participants formally apply for government amnesty, marked another step in their transition from armed struggle to peaceful community life.
During the workshop, former rebels worked on completing their amnesty application forms with guidance from partner agencies and facilitators. Technical personnel assisted them in preparing required documents, while lawyers helped notarize the applications to ensure proper submission. The participants, coming from different areas in Southeastern Mindanao, were also oriented on the importance of legal reintegration and the opportunities available to them after availing of the amnesty program.
At the end of the four-day activity, all 60 applications were endorsed to the National Amnesty Commission’s Local Amnesty Board–Davao for evaluation. The former rebels expressed hope that the process would help them move forward, rebuild relationships with their families, and actively participate in community development efforts.
“This opportunity gives us a chance to finally move forward, leave the past behind, and focus on rebuilding our lives with our families,” said Ida Marie Lubguban, KALINAW SEMR President.
The amnesty application workshop forms part of ongoing reintegration efforts supporting former rebels as they return to civilian life. By facilitating their legal documentation, the activity helps remove barriers that may hinder their access to government programs, livelihood opportunities, and social services.
Former rebels who complete the amnesty process are encouraged to take part in peacebuilding initiatives and community activities, contributing to stability in their respective areas. The initiative also highlights the role of collaboration among stakeholders in supporting former rebels on their journey toward healing, reconciliation, and sustainable peace in the Davao Region.
