Kalinga: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) continues to strengthen its collaboration with local government units (LGUs) in advancing peace and development as it ended the final round of focus group discussions (FGDs) in conflict-vulnerable areas in Kalinga province.

According to Philippines News Agency, the discussions held from October 22 to 24 in Barangays Dilag in San Juan, and Magnao in Tabuk City, reinforced the strategic goal of building community resilience in areas affected by or vulnerable to conflict. Undersecretary Alan Tanjusay of the DSWD Peace and Development Group (PDG) emphasized the importance of engaging with local communities to understand their realities, guiding better peace-building efforts across the country.

The DSWD's Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa-National Program Management Office (PDBBM-NPMO) under the PDG spearheaded the discussions. The FGDs included participation from barangay officials, elders, youth representatives, women's groups, people's organizations, and PAMANA-organized associations, reflecting the program's inclusive and participatory approach.

The PAMANA (PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn) is implemented in areas affected by conflict and communities covered by existing peace agreements. As one of the implementing agencies of PAMANA, the DSWD aims to address the economic disparities that often fuel unrest and insurgency through social protection, livelihood services, and infrastructure projects.

During the sessions, residents identified pressing community needs, such as expanding livelihood opportunities, addressing low farm gate prices of palay, deploying additional barangay health workers, and improving infrastructure and communication networks. The discussions also explored possibilities for increasing local emergency vehicles and providing continuous and accessible education services, particularly for those affected by tribal conflicts.

Undersecretary Tanjusay noted that while the FGD in Barangay Magnao marked the conclusion of the dialogue series, the DSWD's commitment to promoting peace, resilience, and inclusive development in conflict-affected communities remains steadfast. The insights gathered will aid in formulating responsive interventions and referring identified needs to concerned government agencies for appropriate action.

The DSWD commits to strengthening inter-agency coordination and referral mechanisms to address community needs through a cohesive, whole-of-government approach.