Marcos 'zealously continuing' Duterte's rebel amnesty initiative--Romualdez
At A Glance
- The amnesty program for rebels that then-president Rodrigo Duterte started is now being "zealously continued" by President Marcos, says House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (left), former president Rodrigo Duterte (MANILA BULLETIN, Malacañang photo)
The amnesty program for rebels that then-president Rodrigo Duterte started is now being "zealously continued" by President Marcos.
Thus, said House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who expressed on Saturday, Nov. 25 his strong support for the peace initiatives hatched during the previous administration.
"True progress blooms in the gardens of peace. The amnesty programs initiated by President Duterte and zealously continued by President Marcos are not just acts of reconciliation but pivotal steps towards the Philippines' economic and social flourishing," Romualdez said, referring to the incumbent Chief Executive's recent grant of amnesty to rebels.
The Speaker noted that under the Duterte administration, a historic move was made to grant amnesty to members of various rebel groups, which President Marcos has admirably sustained.
Romualdez said this continuity underscores a unified vision for peace across different administrations.
"By integrating former rebels back into the societal fabric, we are weaving a stronger, more resilient Philippines," said the leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives.
Emphasizing the correlation between peace and development, Romualdez remarked: "Every step towards peace is a leap towards development. As we heal past divisions, we unlock the full potential of our nation, ensuring that development reaches every corner of our archipelago."
Acknowledging the critical role of community and government support in the successful reintegration of former rebels, Romualdez highlighted the need for comprehensive programs focusing on jobs and livelihood, education, and healthcare.
The Speaker said the House of Representatives will immediately sit down with the Executive Department to map out plans for reintegration of amnestied rebels in order to give them opportunity to become productive Filipino citizens.
"In unity, there is strength; in peace, there's a future. The House of Representatives stands resolute in supporting measures that foster peace and propel our nation towards unparalleled growth," Romualdez added.