Sultan kudarat: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa Program (PDBBM) and in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), conducted a cash-for-work (CFW) payout for 1,433 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) decommissioned combatants on Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Undersecretary Alan Tanjusay of the DSWD's Peace and Development Group emphasized that the initiative is not only about financial assistance but also a strategic intervention aimed at strengthening communities and sustaining peace. Tanjusay highlighted the program's goal of promoting long-term economic stability, community development, and stronger peace through good governance and unity.
The payout, coordinated with DSWD 12 (Soccsksargen), is part of the national government's broader peace-building and socio-economic reintegration initiatives under the normalization track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro. This plan prioritizes the restoration of livelihoods and rebuilding the lives of decommissioned combatants and their families.
The cash-for-work program is designed to meet the immediate needs of MILF decommissioned combatants and their families, providing support for food, medical requirements, education, shelter, livelihood, and skills development. Additionally, it lays the groundwork for long-term economic stability by promoting community participation, social cohesion, and sustainable livelihood strategies.
Tanjusay remarked that the activity encourages unity by motivating participants to set aside cultural and social differences, emphasizing that all Filipinos share a common nation and collective responsibility for peace and development.
Through the PDBBM, the DSWD continues to implement comprehensive interventions, including livelihood assistance, educational support, and community-based development programs, which aim to transform former conflict-affected areas into productive and resilient communities. Tanjusay urged participants not to lose hope, assuring them that every step they take is a step towards a brighter future filled with peace, progress, and dignity.
As the Bangsamoro region advances towards lasting peace, the DSWD reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind, especially those who have embraced peace, reconciliation, and nation-building as their chosen path.
