Philippines to grant amnesty to militants

The Philippine government will grant amnesty to militants who are facing or have been convicted on rebellion-related charges under a newly signed peace pact, which calls for the 11,000-strong militant force to be deactivated, AP quoted an official as saying Sunday.Presidential peace adviser Teresita Deles said the amnesty, which still need congressional approval, would only cover fighters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and exclude guerrillas who broke off from the group and continue to endanger peace. According to the pact that was signed by Philippine government and rebel negotiators in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Saturday, the granting of the amnesty and pardon was aimed at facilitating "the healing of the wounds of conflict and the return to normal life."