Metro Manila, Philippines — Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. extended his gratitude to Cotabato Governor Lala Taliño-Mendoza for her commitment to the Localizing Normalization Implementation (LNI) Program, a peace initiative that will be implemented across Cotabato Province.
In a discussion held today at the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay, Governor Taliño-Mendoza reaffirmed the provincial government’s full support for OPAPRU’s peace-building initiatives, especially those aimed at fostering peace across Mindanao. The governor emphasized that Cotabato is dedicated to contributing to national efforts that strengthen peace and reconciliation, aligning closely with OPAPRU’s mission.
The LNI program is a vital part of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), which seeks to reintegrate former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants into civilian life, promoting their productivity and enabling them to become partners in building a progressive and peaceful community.
In the conference’s breakout sessions, Governor Mendoza shared insights and recommendations on peace and security strategies, highlighting successful practices in Cotabato that focus on community safety, stability, and protection of women and vulnerable groups. She also emphasized the importance of ensuring that peace-building efforts are inclusive and sustainable, reflecting Cotabato’s commitment to long-term community development.
Secretary Galvez praised the collaborative approach shown by Governor Mendoza and her administration, expressing hope that the LNI Program in Cotabato will serve as a model for peace and security programs in other regions, ultimately contributing to a peaceful and unified Mindanao.
