Zamboanga Sibugay and OPAPRU Seal Agreement to Advance Peace and Development
In a significant move to bolster peace and development initiatives, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) and the Provincial Government of Zamboanga Sibugay formalized a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Tuesday, February 10, in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay. This partnership marks a pivotal step in localizing efforts to enhance socioeconomic conditions in the coastal province.
Localizing Normalization for Sustainable Progress
Under the newly signed MOA, OPAPRU and the Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) will jointly execute the Localizing Normalization Implementation (LNI) Program. This initiative is designed to uplift the lives of decommissioned Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants, their families, and surrounding communities through targeted interventions.
To support these efforts, OPAPRU will transfer Php 11,796,250 to the provincial government. These funds will be allocated for a variety of programs under the Normalization Program, including:
- Skills and technical training to enhance employability
- Emergency employment opportunities through Cash-for-Work schemes
- Assistance in securing birth certificates and other vital documents
- Livelihood interventions aimed at fostering economic stability
Leadership Emphasizes Collaborative Peacebuilding
Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, underscored the critical role of the Normalization Program in centering former fighters within peacebuilding frameworks. "The localization of the Normalization Program is essential to fortify peace and development in every province. It places former rebels, their families, and communities at the heart of our initiatives," Galvez stated.
He further highlighted the empowerment of provincial governments to lead peace and development projects, ensuring a more tailored and effective approach. "This grants provincial governments the authority to spearhead peace and development projects within their jurisdictions," he added.
Multi-Stakeholder Approach Strengthens Implementation
Galvez praised the province's adoption of a multi-stakeholder strategy, involving the MILF, provincial government, national agencies, civil society, and security sectors to ensure the LNI Program's success. "Moving forward, I am very optimistic of the positive outcomes that this partnership will bring to further strengthen peace, social cohesion, and the overall development of Zamboanga Sibugay," he remarked.
Security sector representatives, including PBGen. Edwin A Quilates of the Philippine National Police - Regional Office 9 and MGen Yegor Rey P. Barroquilo Jr. of the 1st Infantry 'Tabak' Division, expressed unwavering commitment to the program. They emphasized collaborative efforts to maintain peace and security, with Lt. Gen. Donald M Gumiran of the Western Mindanao Command pledging priority to the safety of Zamboanga Sibugay residents.
Provincial Support and Sustained Peace Gains
Zamboanga Sibugay Governor Ann K. Hofer reaffirmed the province's dedication to the Normalization Program. "As governor, I reaffirm the province’s full and faithful commitment to the implementation of the normalization program. We likewise pledge to continue investing in systems, institutions, and partnerships that promote peace and strengthen security in every town and every Barangay of Zamboanga Sibugay," Hofer declared.
The event also showcased progress in the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program, with 61 loose firearms turned over to authorities. Additionally, the provincial government and the Department of Social Welfare and Development provided rice sacks and food packs to beneficiaries, highlighting ongoing humanitarian efforts.
Enhanced Coordination for Future Resilience
To improve stakeholder coordination, the PLGU launched the Provincial Communication System, a unified radio network aimed at ensuring efficient responses during emergencies. This initiative, along with the MOA, reflects a shared vision between OPAPRU and Zamboanga Sibugay to make the Normalization Program more inclusive and community-driven.
By empowering local leadership and fostering genuine ownership, this collaboration aims to achieve lasting peace and development through shared decision-making and sustained efforts on the ground.
