The Senate has approved the 3 House Concurrent Resolution that will grant amnesty to members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and members of the Revolutionary Labor Party of the Philippines/revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB).
Three resolutions were approved by a vote of 18 in favor, unanimously, and without abstention, agreeing with the President’s proclamation for amnesty.
It states that the crimes committed by those above, such as murder, will be forgiven if committed due to a political ideology.
This results from the government’s peace talks with the rebels and genuine reconciliation or unity.
The amnesty does not include crimes such as rape and other crimes against chastity.
The scope of the amnesty also does not include perpetrators of crimes aligned with the Anti-Terrorism Law.
Beneficiaries do not include state actors or government authorities.
Among those who can be granted amnesty are those who have committed crimes because of their political beliefs.
Senate approves amnesty to MILF, MNLF, and Alex Boncayao Brigade members
These include rebellion, sedition, illegal assembly, direct assault, indirect assault, alarm and scandal, and more.
In his sponsorship speech, Sen. Panfilo Lacson the importance of approving the amnesty.
“It is high time that we finally stand up to our commitment to ‘walk the talk’ to attain the objectives of our myriad of peace negotiations. Through these amnesty grants, we are handing out second chances to the over 7,600 prospective applicants who are willing to have a new start in life in a secure place in society,” said Lacson.
“Indeed, amnesty is an act of compassion on the part of the government. It is a chance to mend our wounds from our constant struggle. More importantly, this is our time to heal.
“If viewed the same by all parties concerned, then our concurrence may be another step closer towards reconciliation, and ultimately the attainment of lasting peace.”
Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon criticized proclamations such as the provision that amnesty covers the massacre.
It was emphasized that in the country’s laws, there is no crime of massacre, but it is a word describing mass murder.
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