In a significant move to bolster reconciliation efforts, the Philippine Army's 1003rd Infantry (Raptor) Brigade, in collaboration with Davao City's Peace 911 and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity – Local Conflict Transformation Field Implementation Support Unit in Mindanao (OPAPRU LCT-FISU Mindanao), successfully organized a four-day Amnesty Application Workshop. This event, held from February 23 to 26, 2026, at the army base in Marilog, Davao City, targeted 60 former members of the CPP-NPA-NDF who have since joined Kalinaw Southeastern Mindanao (Kalinaw SEMR).
Strengthening Peace Through Amnesty
Brigadier General Christopher Diaz, Commander of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade, emphasized the workshop's role in providing a genuine second chance for former rebels. "The amnesty program is a concrete manifestation of our sincerity in giving our former rebels a genuine second chance, and assisting them in their transformation and reintegration," he stated during his speech on February 26, 2026. Diaz highlighted that this initiative aligns with the national government's peace and unity agenda, addressing both security concerns and the legal needs of former rebels as they reintegrate into society.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Development
The workshop culminated in the endorsement of 60 amnesty applications to the National Amnesty Commission's Local Amnesty Board–Davao Secretariat. Participants included former rebels supported by various military units, such as the 1003rd Brigade, 25IB, 27IB, 60IB, 103MICO, 73IB, 72IB, the Philippine Air Force, and the Davao City Police Office, all assisted by Davao City's Peace 911. OPAPRU LCT-FISU Mindanao, led by Director Atty. Elisa D. Evangelista-Lapiña, provided technical assistance, helping applicants complete forms accurately and efficiently.
Davao City Government, under Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte, through Atty. Jonah Margarette Presto, Acting Head of Peace 911, offered crucial support, including legal notarization services. Diaz expressed gratitude, noting, "This initiative stands as a clear demonstration of the Whole-of-Nation Approach, where collective commitment, shared responsibility, and unified action transform intent into meaningful and purposeful outcomes in our effort to sustain the gains of peace of Davao Region."
Future Initiatives and Community Praise
The 1003rd Infantry Brigade pledged to continue similar programs in coordination with partner agencies, ensuring qualified former rebels access government benefits like amnesty, livelihood support, and social services. Ida Marie Lubguban, President of Kalinaw SEMR, commended the efforts, stating, "We commend the 1003rd Infantry Brigade for hosting this activity. This initiative would not have been possible without the strong collaboration and assistance of partners from the City Government of Davao, Peace 911, the DCPO, AFP, and OPAPRU, where every stakeholder plays a vital role in guiding former rebels toward reintegration, healing, and a more peaceful future."
Key attendees included COL Ronaldo G. Valdez, Deputy Brigade Commander; TC Eliezer M. Bejarin, Battalion Commander of the 27th Infantry Battalion; PLTCOL Nolan R. Raquid, Deputy City Director for Administration; and representatives from the Local Amnesty Board and City Legal Office, underscoring the broad-based support for this peace-building endeavor.
