These passes mark a key milestone in their reintegration into peaceful civilian life. The Office of Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Al-Mansour” A. Macacua announced the development through an official post on Facebook.

Chief Minister Macacua, who also serves as BIAF Chief of Staff, led the ceremonial distribution of SCPs and emphasized their importance. “Let this pass be your shield, not just in the legal sense, but as a testament that the Bangsamoro Government stands with you,” he said. National Amnesty Commission (NAC) Chairperson Atty. Leah C. Tanodra-Armamento, Commissioners Atty. Jamar M. Kulayan, Atty. Mohammad Jamalul J. Giducos, and Atty. Ser-me L. Ayuyao joined him, along with MILF and regional leaders. The SCPs also covered amnesty applicants from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the New People’s Army (NPA).

The SCP legally protects MILF members who committed rebellion-related acts before joining the peace process. As long as applicants comply with requirements—such as filing applications and attending hearings—authorities cannot arrest or charge them. This is crucial for BIAF members who must travel from remote camps to government centers. The government began issuing SCPs after an uncoordinated NBI raid in October 2024 on an MILF orientation in General Santos City sparked concern. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. later signed Memorandum Order No. 36, which authorized the NAC to issue SCPs to avoid such incidents.

The amnesty program offers official pardon to former rebels, as outlined in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). Proclamation No. 1090, signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte, and extended through Proclamation No. 405 by President Marcos Jr., empowers the NAC to implement it. Through amnesty, applicants can clear criminal records, obtain government IDs and documents, participate in elections, and even get released from detention if eligible.

Atty. Marvin Mokamad of the Local Amnesty Board in Cotabato City urged all eligible BIAF members—including those in jail—to apply. He assured applicants that the board is ready to assist with documentation and processing. For Chief Minister Macacua and the Bangsamoro Government, these developments represent not just legal reforms but a continuation of the long struggle for peace, dignity, and reintegration for former mujahideen.