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OPAPRU: Peace programs to go into high gear in Bicol

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno
June 3, 2025, 1:39 pm

MANILA -- The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) reiterated its commitment to ramping up the implementation of the Localized Peace Engagement (LPE) and Transformation Program in the Bicol Region.

"Tuloy-tuloy ang (it is ongoing, the) LPE [implementation]. This is a joint effort of all stakeholders, including LGUs (local government units) and OPAPRU. We are cascading all NTF-ELCAC (National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict) mechanisms from the regional level down to the provincial level," OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said in a statement late Monday.

He also added that they are actively working with governors and provincial agencies in addressing the concerns of rebel returnees as part of efforts to help them rebuild their lives and support their families.

Galvez said the OPAPRU is proposing an increase in the "Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan" (PAMANA) budget under the National Expenditure Program to boost the program's implementation in the regions, particularly in critical areas such as Bicol and Samar.

Earlier, the OPAPRU said PAMANA has allocated PHP705 million in funds to implement high-impact, community-driven infrastructure projects across the region. The funds will be used to construct bridges, water supply systems and roads, among others.

He also noted major improvements in the areas' peace and security situation because of the construction of key infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges, which are uplifting the lives of residents.

"The goal is a complete change of mindset -- to transform lives, especially those in marginalized communities. Through capacity-building and access to education and skills training, we aim to equip them for better employment opportunities, which in turn will uplift the lives and prosperity of our fellow Filipinos," Galvez said. (PNA)