ALLEN, Northern Samar — In a continuing effort to help former rebels rebuild their lives and fully return to the folds of society, the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) of Catbalogan, Samar issued safe conduct passes (SCPs) to 62 former combatants during a ceremony at the 43rd Infantry “We Search” Battalion headquarters in Barangay Magsaysay, Lope de Vega.
The event marked not just the release of important legal documents but also a symbolic moment of reassurance—affirming that those choosing peace will be given protection and support while completing their amnesty requirements.
The SCP, issued by the National Amnesty Commission, allows amnesty applicants who are not detained to move freely and safely as they process their papers, up to the point when their applications receive presidential approval.
Unless revoked, the SCP serves as a temporary shield and a gesture of trust, helping ease the transition of former rebels back into normal community life.
The ceremony was attended by key regional and local officials, including Brigadier General Carmelito Pangatungan of the 803rd Brigade, Police Colonel Sonnie Omengan, OPAPRU–Eastern Visayas representative Imelda Bonifacio, Lope de Vega Vice Mayor Hanabelle Eden Lim Bation, and 43rd Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Jason Que, all of whom expressed their full support for the program.
Before distributing the passes, the LAB Secretariat walked the beneficiaries through the guidelines to ensure they understood the privileges and responsibilities that come with the SCP. Encouraging messages followed—among them a testimonial from a former rebel who shared how support from government and local communities helped him choose peace.
Officials highlighted the value of the SCP in building confidence and fostering acceptance.
PCol. Omengan emphasized that the document serves “not just as protection, but as a symbol that communities welcome those who have chosen to change their path.”
Brig. Gen. Pangatungan echoed this sentiment, reiterating the collective commitment to peace under the slogan, “Unity for Peace Onwards to Development — UPOD KITA.”
With 62 SCPs now in the hands of former rebels, Northern Samar takes another hopeful step forward in its peacebuilding and reintegration efforts—one that brings the province closer to lasting stability and development.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
