DAVAO CITY — Eighty-seven former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) from the Southern Mindanao Region received their Safe Conduct Passes (SCP) during a turnover ceremony conducted by the Local Amnesty Board (LAB)–Davao on June 29 at the Headquarters of the 1003rd Infantry “Raptor” Brigade, 10th Infantry “Agila” Division, Camp Don Mariano Marcos, Baguio District.
The issuance of the Safe Conduct Passes marks another milestone in the beneficiaries’ reintegration journey, allowing qualified applicants to formally enter the government’s amnesty process while providing them legal assurance as they complete the requirements for amnesty and continue rebuilding their lives in their respective communities.
For many of the recipients, the document represents more than a procedural requirement. It offers an opportunity to move forward with greater confidence, reconnect openly with government institutions, and pursue livelihood, education, and other opportunities without the uncertainty that often accompanies life after armed conflict.
One of the recipients, identified as Alias Lyndi, a former Political Instructor of SMRC4, described receiving her Safe Conduct Pass as a moment of relief and renewed hope.
“Unang-una, dako kaayo ko’g kalipay kay makaingon ko nga naa na koy kasiguruhan. Bisan asa ko moadto, kampante na ko ug wala na koy kahadlok. Dako kaayo akong pasalamat sa mga lokal nga naningkamot aron mahimong posible kini nga proseso sa amnestiya. Ang akong panghinaut mao nga dili lang kini kutob karon, apan magpadayon hangtod makab-ot nato ang tinuod ug malungtarong kalinaw. Isip usa ka former rebel, naglaum ko nga magmalampuson kitang tanan sa atong bag-ong kinabuhi.”
(“First of all, I am truly happy because I can now say that I have a sense of security. Wherever I go, I feel safe and no longer have to live in fear. I am deeply grateful to everyone who worked to make this amnesty process possible. My hope is that this effort will continue until we achieve genuine and lasting peace. As a former rebel, I hope we can all move forward successfully as we build new lives.”)
Representing KALINAW–SEMR, Senior Adviser Daniel Pastor also acknowledged the collective efforts behind the activity, expressing gratitude to government agencies and peace partners that continue to support former rebels throughout the reintegration process.
He emphasized that reintegration extends beyond legal documentation, requiring sustained cooperation among government institutions, local communities, and peace organizations to help former rebels rebuild productive and meaningful lives.
The Safe Conduct Pass is an important component of the government’s National Amnesty Program. It allows qualified applicants to coordinate with government agencies and participate in the amnesty process without fear of arrest for offenses covered by the amnesty proclamation, provided they comply with the program’s conditions.
During the ceremony, Atty. Ferdinand M. Taglucop, Vice Chairperson of the Local Amnesty Board–Davao and President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines–Davao Chapter, explained that the Safe Conduct Pass serves as the government’s assurance that eligible applicants may safely complete the legal process toward amnesty. He encouraged recipients to continue complying with program requirements as they move toward full reintegration.
The ceremony was attended by Brigadier General Christopher M. Diaz, Commander of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade; Atty. Elisa D. Evangelista-Laspiña, Director IV of the LCT Field Implementation Support Office; Police Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Lew Garing, representing Davao City Police Office Director Col. Peter B. Madrid; Regional Prosecutor Atty. Janet Grace Dalisay-Fabrero; and Ms. Caryjane Laguna of Peace 911, together with representatives from partner agencies supporting the implementation of the National Amnesty Program.
Beyond the turnover of Safe Conduct Passes, the activity reflected the continuing collaboration among government agencies, local institutions, and peace partners in supporting former rebels as they transition from armed struggle to civilian life. While the amnesty process addresses legal concerns, reintegration ultimately depends on creating opportunities for individuals to regain stability, rebuild trust, and participate meaningfully in their communities.
As the government continues implementing the National Amnesty Program, the Local Amnesty Board–Davao and the National Amnesty Commission reaffirmed their commitment to assisting qualified applicants throughout the process—recognizing that successful reintegration not only transforms individual lives but also contributes to stronger, more resilient, and more peaceful communities.
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