Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 26) — Military operations against communist rebels will continue despite the promised grant of amnesty for returnees, Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro said Wednesday.
\”There is a period of time where you can surrender. However, the operations… as of this time, will continue,\” he told CNN Philippines’ Politics as Usual.
Teodoro also said the military’s action will depend on the mechanics of the proclamation that the commander-in-chief and relevant agencies will work on and submit to Congress.
During his second State of the Nation Address on Monday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. asked lawmakers to support his promise of amnesty to rebel returnees, calling it a crucial step to complete their reintegration to society.
READ: Marcos vows amnesty to rebel returnees, seeks Congress’ support
Meanwhile, the defense chief said the government must also continue efforts to ensure former rebels will not take up arms again.
