Manila: Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. on Thursday called for unity in working toward a lasting peace in Mindanao. "Let our shared vision for Mindanao bridge our differences, putting first the best interests of the people above everything else," Galvez said in his message for this year's celebration of Mindanao Week of Peace. "Let us walk together with patience, compassion, unity, and love for our nation," he added.

According to Philippines News Agency, Galvez cited the "remarkable transformation" happening across Mindanao, attributing the current situation to the determination of Mindanaoan families to "heal, move forward, and build on the gains of peace." He emphasized that the foundations of peace are built by families where compassion, understanding, and mutual respect take root. He noted that the youth are rising to take part and shape conversations on key social issues with courage, empathy, and creativity.

Mindanao Week of Peace was first observed in 2001 through Proclamation Order 127 issued by then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The proclamation aimed to recognize the "common aspirations of Mindanaoans to live in peace, unity, and harmony with each other regardless of life, religion or culture."

This year's celebration has the theme "Multi-faith in Families and Youth: Hand-in-hand for Peace, Harmony, and Justice in Our Homeland," which, according to Galvez, serves as a reminder that peace "is built first in the places closest to our hearts."