BACOLOD CITY - In a significant move towards reconciliation, 300 former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) from Negros and Panay islands have applied for government amnesty. This initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage insurgents to reintegrate into society.
According to Philippines News Agency, the application process was conducted from July 5 to 12. In Negros, the Local Amnesty Board (LAB)-Bacolod processed 210 applications at the Bacolod City College campus, facilitated by the 302nd and 303rd Infantry Brigades. Meanwhile, in Panay, LAB-Iloilo handled 90 applications at Camp General Adriano Hernandez in Dingle town, with the assistance of the 301st Infantry Brigade.
Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, has reiterated his call for the remaining CPP-NPA members to surrender and reintegrate into society, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and second chances in achieving peace and security in the region. He noted that all five guerrilla fronts of the CPP-NPA in Negros have been dismantled, while only one remains active in Panay.
Under Proclamation 404, former insurgents, including those detained, charged, or convicted for acts committed in pursuit of political beliefs, are eligible for amnesty. The proclamation covers crimes related to political activities committed before November 22, 2023, such as rebellion, insurrection, and sedition, among others. The deadline for filing amnesty applications is March 4, 2026.