MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the San Fernando, Bukidnon LGU have joined forces to launch the Peace Project for Children Involved in Armed Conflict (CIAC), aiming to rehabilitate and support children affected by armed conflict

On the Facebook page of the 89th Infantry Battalion, it was reported that the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) took place on August 7, 2025, at Pearlmont Hotel.

The initiative provides psychosocial support, protective services, and development opportunities, helping restore children’s well-being and uphold their rights. It aligns with Republic Act No. 11188, the Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict (CSAC) Act, and supports the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict under Executive Order No. 70.

Representing the DSWD, Mr. Jayson D. Oabel signed the MOA on behalf of Undersecretary Eduardo M. Punay. San Fernando Mayor Rogelio C. Yeke and DSWD Region X Director Ramel F. Jamen also took part in the signing.

Mayor Yeke emphasized the LGU’s commitment to protecting vulnerable sectors, saying, “This is more than a formality — it is a heartfelt pledge to safeguard children affected by conflict.”

San Fernando and Talaingod, Davao del Norte, have been chosen as pilot areas due to their history of exposure to conflict. San Fernando is the first municipality in Bukidnon declared insurgency-free, thanks to collaboration between the LGU, national agencies, and the 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion.

The project seeks not only to protect children from the impacts of armed conflict but also to empower them as active contributors to community peacebuilding and development, transforming past hardships into hope for the future. (melbmadera)