Safe Conduct Passes Mark Another Step Toward Reintegration in Bukidnon

QUEZON, Bukidnon — Individuals undergoing the government’s peace, amnesty and reintegration process received Safe Conduct Passes during a turnover ceremony held October 6 at the evacuation center in Barangay Poblacion, Quezon, Bukidnon.

The turnover forms part of ongoing efforts to support individuals formerly associated with the insurgency as they go through the processes toward returning to their communities and participating in government programs intended to assist their transition to civilian life. 

The activity brought together representatives from the local government, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police, Philippine Army and other peace and reintegration programs. Among those present were Quezon Mayor Pablo M. Lorenzo III, Vice Mayor Joseph T. Durotan, DILG Bukidnon Provincial Director Rhona P. Abadilla, Bukidnon Police Provincial Director PCOL Oliver S. Navales and representatives of the Local Amnesty Board.

The Safe Conduct Pass is part of the process being undertaken by recipients as they pursue peaceful reintegration. The turnover provides them an avenue to proceed with the necessary processes and access available government assistance and programs. 

The activity also reflected coordination among government agencies involved in peace, amnesty and reintegration. The participating institutions work across different areas of the process, from local governance and social support to security and peace programs.

For the former rebels, the turnover represents another stage in a process that moves beyond leaving an armed group and toward resuming civilian life in their communities. The government continues to implement programs intended to support that transition and reduce the effects of armed conflict.