Bongbong Marcos to grant amnesty to rebel returnees

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Screenshot from RTVM

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said that he will sign a proclamation granting amnesty to rebel returnees who were involved in armed struggle.

During his second State of the Nation Address (Sona), Marcos said that his administration is dedicated to implementing reintegration programs for former combatants.

“To complete this reintegration process, I will issue a Proclamation granting amnesty to rebel returnees, and I ask Congress to support me in this endeavor,” said Marcos during his Sona.

However, the President did not specify when he would enact the proclamation.

In his speech, Marcos acknowledged the Philippines’ history with armed struggle, but reiterated that the country was headed towards peace.

“For almost half a century, some of our fellow Filipinos have taken to arms to make their views known and felt. We are now at a point in our history when their armed struggle has evolved. We have now progressed together towards peace and development,” said Marcos.

According to Marcos, the government included capacity building and social protection to reintegration program.

“Through community development and livelihood programs, the Barangay Development and Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Programs have been effective in addressing the root cause of conflict in the countryside,” said Marcos.

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JPV