The amnesty granted to rebels and insurgents will create a climate conducive to peace and reconciliation, the National Security Council (NSC) said.
In its statement, the NSC said the amnesty will also provide a pathway for former rebels to reintegrate into the society and give them access to socio-economic services of the government.
“We recognize these proclamations as significant steps towards national healing and peacebuilding. By providing a path for former rebels to return to the fold of the law, the national amnesty program contributes to the overall stability and unity of our nation,” the NSC said in a statement.
“We thank the President for his dedication and commitment to achieving lasting peace and look forward to the positive impact these amnesty measures will have on our society,” the NSC added.
It also encouraged former rebels to seize the opportunity and avail of the government’s once-in-a-lifetime offer.
Through an executive order and several proclamations, President Marcos granted amnesty to rebels and insurgent groups.
Executive Order (EO) No. 47 dated Nov. 22 amended the previous administration's EO 125, which created the National Amnesty Commission (NAC). Under the EO, Marcos cited the need to amend and update the NAC's functions to cover the processing of the applications for amnesty under four new proclamations—Proclamation Nos. 403, 404, 405, and 406.