MATANOG, Maguindanao del Norte — A once war-scarred route in the heart of the Iranun Corridor is set to be transformed into a vital pathway for peace and progress following the groundbreaking of a five-kilometer provincial road linking Barangay Langkong in Matanog to Barangay Togaig in Barira on December 20, 2025.
Held at Camp Darul Aman, the milestone activity gathered government officials, peace partners, and security forces, underscoring a unified push to turn the gains of peace agreements into tangible improvements for conflict-affected communities. The event was led by Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr., alongside local leaders and key stakeholders, marking a significant step toward improved mobility, expanded economic opportunities, and sustained peace-building in the area.
The road project is part of the Camps Transformation Program under the Normalization Process of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). Historically, the road was used during periods of armed conflict, including the All-Out-War and military operations toward Camp Abubakar—symbolizing years of violence, isolation, and underdevelopment. Its rehabilitation now reflects a decisive shift from conflict to cooperation, transforming a former route of war into a lifeline for communities, commerce, and development.
In his message, Secretary Galvez stressed that peace agreements must be felt by communities to remain meaningful, emphasizing that infrastructure projects such as this road are concrete manifestations of the government’s peace commitments. Matanog Mayor Zohria Bansil Guro echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude to the national government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and peace partners for delivering a long-awaited project. She said the road will ease daily travel, boost livelihoods, and rekindle hope among families who have long endured the impacts of conflict.
Representing 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division Commander MGEN Jose Vladimir R. Caraga AFP, 1st Marine Brigade Commander BGEN Larry C. Batalla PN(M) highlighted that the initiative goes beyond infrastructure development. He noted that every kilometer rehabilitated helps heal the wounds of the past by enhancing security, stimulating economic activity, and rebuilding trust among communities.
The activity concluded with a renewed commitment among stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and ensure that the dividends of peace lead to lasting progress—turning a once-contested route into a pathway of unity, opportunity, and hope, where peace is no longer merely promised but visibly built, step by step.