TUBOD, Lanao del Norte — Demonstrating a strong commitment to peace and progress, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte successfully convened the 2025 Provincial Volunteers for Peace and Development (PVPD) Congress on April 19 at the Mindanao Civic Center Gymnasium.
Led by Governor Imelda “Angging” Quibranza-Dimaporo, the event brought together 1,451 volunteers from the municipalities of Linamon, Kauswagan, Bacolod, Maigo, Kolambugan, Tubod, Baroy, Lala, and Kapatagan. The congress aimed to bolster grassroots peacebuilding initiatives and promote inclusive, sustainable development across the province.
Both 1st District Representative Mohamad Khalid Quibranza Dimaporo and 2nd District Representative Sittie Aminah Quibranza Dimaporo joined the event, expressing their strong support for volunteerism as a vital force in community transformation.
In his address, Cong. Khalid underscored the indispensable role of volunteers in local governance. “Very critical para sa administration ni Gov. Angging ay yung mga counterparts namin sa baba, yung mga field workers at kayo mga front liners mga PVPD,” he remarked, acknowledging the PVPDs as frontline partners in implementing development programs.
Cong. Aminah, meanwhile, highlighted the province’s enduring legacy of peace and interfaith unity. She noted, “Na-ilado ning Lanao del Norte tungod sa Peace and Unity, nga nagkahiusa ang atong mga Kristyano ug mga Muslims. Ug gisugdan na siya sa atong amahan nga si former Congressman Abdullah Dimaporo.” She emphasized that the harmony among faith communities in Lanao del Norte is the product of decades of inclusive leadership and deliberate efforts toward unity.
The event was also graced by Vice Governor Allan Lim and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, showcasing the unity of the province’s executive and legislative branches in supporting grassroots volunteerism.
Key discussions during the congress aimed to empower volunteers with essential knowledge and tools for community service. MAJ Liza Mira of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade highlighted the roles of PVPDs and Barangay Tanods in Civil-Military Operations (CMO), stressing the need for cooperation between citizens and the military in securing peace. PLTCOL Salman Saad of the PNP–Lanao del Norte discussed the importance of early conflict detection, vigilance, and proactive engagement in preserving peace and order.
The 2025 PVPD Congress served as a powerful reaffirmation of Lanao del Norte’s commitment to citizen-led development. With thousands of volunteers standing ready, the province continues to forge a path toward unity, resilience, and inclusive growth.