TACLOBAN CITY — In a major step toward sustaining peace in one of Samar’s once insurgency-affected towns, a total of 116 former rebels from Matuguinao have formally applied for amnesty following a two-day orientation and intake activity led by the Local Amnesty Board (LAB)–Catbalogan.
The activity, held in Barangay Mabuligon, was organized in partnership with the 43rd Infantry Battalion and the local government of Matuguinao. Mayor Aran Boller spearheaded the initiative, emphasizing its importance in reinforcing the town’s peace gains and supporting the reintegration of former combatants.
Representing Battalion Commander LtCol Jason Que, 2LT Mariel Andrea Marcos and her team assisted the former rebels in completing their custodial debriefing reports — a crucial requirement in their amnesty application.
The LAB Secretariat also provided a comprehensive briefing on the government’s amnesty program, outlining the full process from application to endorsement to the Office of the President and clarifying which offenses qualify under the proclamation.
On the first day of intake, 82 FRs submitted their applications, followed by 34 more the next day, completing the total of 116 applicants. Officials described the turnout as a strong sign of determination among the FRs to clear their names and formally rejoin mainstream society as law-abiding citizens.
All applicants took their oath of allegiance before Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) lawyers Cheska Marie Geli and Nancy Faye Bernardo, who ensured that each former rebel fully understood the responsibilities and commitments under the amnesty program.
Mayor Boller reiterated the municipal government’s firm resolve to end insurgency permanently by opening long-term avenues for reconciliation, reintegration, and livelihood opportunities.
Meanwhile, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace and Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Area Management Unit–Eastern Visayas Program Manager Imelda Bonifacio briefed the FRs on ongoing peace and development projects in Matuguinao. She highlighted the importance of infrastructure upgrades, particularly the road network linking Las Navas and Matuguinao, and affirmed continued government support.
Bonifacio also introduced members of the Special Project Team (SPT) — themselves former rebels — who are assisting the LAB Secretariat in processing applications.
The successful completion of the activity highlights how coordinated efforts between LGUs, security forces, and national agencies continue to accelerate peacebuilding and support the transformation of conflict-affected communities across Eastern Visayas.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
