The people of Zamboanga City are "strongly" opposing President Duterte's amnesty grant for members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) over the 2013 siege that displaced thousands of families.

Zamboanga City 2nd District Representative Mannix Dalipe registered his "no" vote on behalf of his constituents when the House committee of justice and defense were discussing on Tuesday, March 16, the proposed resolutions concurring to Duterte's February 5 proclamations granting amnesty to members of rebel and communist groups, including the MNLF.

"This representation…would like to manifest our constituents' strong opposition to House Concurrent Resolution No. 13 concurring Proclamation No 1091 which grants amnesty to MNLF members," Dalipe said during the public hearing.

"Mr. Chair, for the record of the joint committees, our opposition…is the reiteration of the sentiments of our constituents who suffered during the MNLF attack in the city of Zamboanga last September, 2013." In manifesting his objection, Dalipe explained that he supports the government's efforts for peace, "but I need to express the sentiments of our constituents." "Justice should be served to the victims of Zamboanga siege and those accused should be held accountable for the crimes they committed," he pointed out.

In September 9, 2013, MNLF forces attacked Zamboanga City in attempt to declare an independent state, hostaging residents -- even using them as human shields -- in a stand off with government troops that lasted for over two weeks.

The clash ended with some 200 of MNLF members, policemen, soldiers as well as civilians, dead; and hundreds others were wounded. Thousands of homes were also destroyed, with damages reportedly totaling to over $73 million.

With Duterte's amnesty grant, the rebels would be cleared of any criminal liability for the acts committed in pursuit of political beliefs. This would be without prejudice to the grantee’s civil liability for injuries or damages caused to private persons whose right to be indemnified is recognized.

“The grant of amnesty shall also effect the restoration of civil or political rights suspended or lost by virtue of criminal conviction,” the proclamation also stated.

Applications for amnesty grant must be filed within one year from the effectivity of the proclamation. The amnesty will take effect upon concurrence by a majority of all members of Congress.