OPAPRU Briefs Laguna Media on Localized Peace Engagement, Transformation Programs

LAGUNA, Philippines — The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Calabarzon, conducted a media and information briefing in Laguna on Tuesday, September 29, to discuss the government’s localized peace engagement and transformation initiatives.

(from left to right) Dir. Darwin Wally T. Wee, Head of OPAPRU CPAS, Dir. Noly Mapili, Head of CPP-NP-NDF Peace Process Office, Col. Michael Aquino, Chief, Public Affairs Office of AFP 2ID, Mr. Art Brian Rubio, Local Government Operations Officer V, DILG 4A, Mr. Tristan Jeremias Bello, Area Management Unit-Calabarzon

The activity provided local journalists and information officers with updates on the government’s peacebuilding efforts and highlighted the role of local stakeholders in promoting lasting peace, security, and development in communities.

Among the key topics discussed was the Localized Peace Engagement (LPE), which focuses on strengthening coordination among local government units, communities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders in addressing issues affecting peace and security at the grassroots level.

The briefing also featured the government’s Transformation Program, which seeks to assist individuals and communities undergoing a transition toward peaceful, secure, and productive lives.

OPAPRU Communications and Public Affairs Services Director Darwin Wally Wee emphasized the importance of good governance and meaningful community participation in sustaining peacebuilding efforts.

Wee noted that stronger collaboration among local governments, communities, civil society groups, and other sectors can help identify the needs of communities and develop interventions suited to their specific circumstances.

The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) was also discussed, along with other government interventions designed to support beneficiaries as they return to and reintegrate into their communities.

These interventions include assistance aimed at addressing livelihood, security, and other welfare needs as beneficiaries rebuild their lives and become productive members of their communities.

Meanwhile, PIA Calabarzon Regional Head Ma. Cristina Arzadon expressed support for initiatives that strengthen the capacity of media practitioners and information officers to provide the public with accurate, timely, and relevant information on peace and development programs.

The briefing underscored the role of responsible information dissemination and community engagement in helping build greater public understanding and support for government peacebuilding initiatives.