NTF-ELCAC lauds House's concurrence with presidential amnesty proclamations for ex-rebels

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) applauded the House of Representatives (HOR) on Friday, Dec. 15, for its concurrence with the amnesty proclamations issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for former members of rebel groups.
The HOR has adopted House Concurrent Resolutions (HCR) 19, 20, 21, and 22 which concurred with the Presidential proclamations that granted amnesty to rebel groups including those belonging to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF); Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
"This is a significant move towards national reconciliation and societal healing, The resolutions stand as a testament to the nation's commitment to peace-building and nation-building," NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Ernesto Torres Jr. said.
For Torres, the decision to extend amnesty to rebel groups reflects a "broader vision" which "prioritizes the healing of past wounds and looks towards a future where all citizens can contribute positively to the nation's progress."
"It is a courageous step towards fostering unity and dismantling the barriers that have divided communities for too long," he noted.
He expressed hope that the remaining rebels will soon "give up the armed struggle" lay down their weapons, and stop the "senseless killings" as they become active participants in nation-building.
Lawmakers have approved unanimously HCR 19 and 21 which grants amnesty to former members of RPMP-RPA-ABB and MILF respectively.
Meanwhile, HCR 20 which grants amnesty to members of CPP-NPA-NDF obtained 225 "yes" votes and three "no" votes, while HCR 22 which grants amnesty to members of MNLF were supported by 229 lawmakers and objected by one.
Marcos has granted amnesty to rebels who have committed crimes in pursuit of their political beliefs in hopes of ending the armed conflict in the country.