Law Summary
Preliminary Provisions
Explanation: This section outlines the policy of reconciliation and rehabilitation of rebels and insurgents, aiming to facilitate their integration into a democratic society through the provision of amnesty.
Key Definitions:
- Amnesty: An act abolishing criminal liability for past political offenses.
- Acts/Omissions in Pursuit of Political Belief: Actions motivated to overthrow or resist government authority.
- Manifestor: Individuals indicating intent to seek amnesty under Proclamations 10 and 10-A.
Important Requirements:
- The rules should be interpreted in favor of the applicant for amnesty.
Organization
A. The National Amnesty Commission (NAC)
Explanation: The NAC is established to manage and process amnesty applications.
Composition:
- Chairperson (appointed by the President)
- Three Commissioners (appointed by the President)
- Three Ex-Officio Members: Secretaries of Justice, National Defense, and Interior and Local Government.
Functions:
- Receive and process amnesty applications.
- Determine eligibility for amnesty under Proclamation No. 347.
- Conduct peace advocacy activities.
Powers:
- Constitute Local Amnesty Boards (LABs).
- Administer oaths and summon witnesses.
Meetings:
- Decisions require a majority vote; quorum is at least four members.
B. The Local Amnesty Board (LAB)
Explanation: LABs are formed to process amnesty applications at the local level.
Composition:
- Includes local representatives from the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, prosecutors, local government officials, and a private citizen of integrity.
Functions:
- Process applications and oppositions.
- Conduct peace advocacy activities.
Meetings:
- Regular meetings are to be held weekly to deliberate on applications.
Coverage and Procedures Under Proclamation 21
A. Coverage
Explanation: Identifies who can apply for amnesty and the types of crimes covered.
Eligible Applicants:
- Rebels or insurgents from recognized organizations, regardless of legal status.
Crimes Covered:
- Includes rebellion, coup d'état, sedition, and other political offenses committed before December 31, 1996.
Non-Covered Crimes:
- Rape and crimes committed for personal ends are excluded.
B. Procedures in the Local Amnesty Board
Explanation: Details the procedures for applying for amnesty.
Filing Applications:
- Applications must be submitted within one year from the effectivity of Proclamation No. 21 (by March 24, 2000).
Verification Process:
- LABs must verify claims within 20 days of receipt.
Opposition Filing:
- Interested parties can oppose applications anytime before the NAC’s decision.
Conferences:
- LABs must hold a conference with applicants, scheduled within 30 days of filing.
Procedures in the National Amnesty Commission
Explanation: Outlines how the NAC handles applications and appeals.
Decision Process:
- The NAC resolves applications promptly after receiving LAB recommendations.
Appeals:
- Aggrieved parties may file a motion for reconsideration within 15 days of the decision.
Effects of Amnesty
Explanation: Describes the legal implications of being granted amnesty.
Extinction of Criminal Liability:
- Amnesty extinguishes criminal liabilities for covered crimes.
Restoration of Rights:
- Civil and political rights are restored, except for civil liabilities towards private persons.
Administrative Effects for AFP/PNP:
- Amnesty reinstates rights to benefits but does not automatically reinstate personnel into service.
Miscellaneous Provisions
Explanation: Covers additional provisions related to the application process.
Surrender of Arms:
- Surrender is not a condition for filing an application.
Safe Conduct Pass:
- Issued to applicants for protection from arrest during the application process.
Confidentiality Clause:
- Admissions made during the application process are confidential and cannot be used against the applicant in other proceedings.
Key Takeaways
- Amnesty is aimed at reconciling rebels and facilitating their reintegration into society.
- The NAC and LABs are established to process amnesty applications and facilitate peace advocacy.
- Applications must be filed by March 24, 2000, with specific procedures for verification and opposition.
- Amnesty extinguishes criminal liabilities and restores civil rights but does not eliminate civil liabilities.
- Confidentiality of proceedings is maintained, and surrender of arms is not a prerequisite for application.