SAN FERNANDO, Bukidnon — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Northern Mindanao and the local government of San Fernando sealed early last month a partnership to launch the PEACE Project, or Protect, Empower, Assist, Care, and Educate children affected by armed conflict

Formalized last August 7 at Pearlmont Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City, the initiative is also supported by the Philippine National Police, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Commission on Human Rights, Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 10th Infantry Division, Regional Sub-Committee for the Welfare of Children, Peace and Development–Buong Bansa Mapayapa, and the DSWD Protective Services Division.

Jayson D. Oabel, chief of the Social Technology Bureau’s Other Marginalized Groups Division, said the project provides a framework for the recovery, reintegration, and protection of children impacted by armed violence.

“Developed by DSWD’s Social Technology Bureau, the PEACE Project delivers life-skills training, community-based interventions, and linkages with peace and protection mechanisms to help children reclaim their rights and rebuild their lives. Programs include communication workshops, family counseling, parenting sessions, peer-support groups, and peace education campaigns,” Oabel said.

He added that the initiative may be replicated in other areas affected by conflict through documentation of best practices, training modules, and the use of the Buong Bansa Mapayapa framework.

“What we are starting here in San Fernando can serve as a model for other communities. If successful, the PEACE Project will not only rebuild young lives but also strengthen the foundations of peace across the country,” he said.

San Fernando Mayor Rogelio C. Yeke said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to protecting children and promoting community stability.

“Ang atong pagpirma sa MOA karong adlawa dili lang usa ka pormalidad, kung dili usa ka tinud-anay nga saad nga atong protektahan ang labing nanginahanglan nga mga kabataan nga naapektohan sa kagubot. Isip mayor sa San Fernando, nagtoo ko nga ang kalinaw dili lang usa ka katuyuan, kundili usa ka paglawig nga dapat nato panaghiusahan,” the mayor said.

(The MOA signing is not mere formality but a commitment to protect children most affected by armed conflict. As mayor of San Fernando, I believe peace is not just a goal but a shared journey that requires unity.)

He said San Fernando was selected as the pilot site for Region 10 because it is the first insurgency-free town in Bukidnon, with demonstrated coordination between the local government and the military, and readiness to implement child-centered peace interventions.

DSWD Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen highlighted the role of collaboration in achieving sustainable peace and development. He said this includes integrated efforts in social services, education, livelihood, justice, and health.

“Peace is not only a distant aspiration but a continuing responsibility. It requires unity, compassion, and concrete action from government, communities, and families to protect children and achieve enduring progress,” Jamen said.

The launch was attended by partners, including PEACE Project Team Leader Joseph R. Salavarria; Potri Jallila T. Taha, officer-in-charge of DSWD-10’s Innovations Division; and Larina B. Tagaloguin, San Fernando municipal social welfare and development officer.

“With the PEACE Project now in motion, DSWD and San Fernando LGU pledged to strengthen child protection and build community resilience, helping shape lasting peace,” Jamen said. (Katerina R. Balistoy/GIP/PIA-10/Bukidnon)