Localized peace engagement (lpe) initiatives have proven their mettle in ending insurgency and building lasting peace in the country:riven solutions are among the best strategies for ending conflict.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sarmiento emphasized that OPAPRU has been working closely with provincial local government units (PLGUs) to craft and implement their respective Transformation Program (TP) implementation plans tailored to the specific needs and realities of conflict-affected communities. He stated, "The genuine strength of peace dialogue lies in the direct stakeholders. These are the affected communities [and] the local government units."

Sarmiento noted that under Republic Act 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, governors and mayors are tasked with ensuring peace and order in their communities. OPAPRU reported that around 53 of the country's 59 target provinces have finalized their TP implementation plans, and 32 PLGUs have formally adopted their TP plans through official resolutions.

The agency further shared that these provinces have started rolling out the TP plans, which would enable them to translate policy into concrete peace and development initiatives on the ground. Additionally, 13 provinces have already provided representatives from former Rebel People's Organizations with seats in local governance bodies, including the Provincial Peace and Order Council, Peace and Development Council, and Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.