The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP)
conducted a consultation with traditional leaders from the Lanao
provinces on November 24, in recognition of the important role of the
Sultanates in the attaining lasting peace.
The consultation dubbed “Peacebuilding Conversations of the Ranao
Traditional Leaders’ Peace Tables” was organized in partnership with the
Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur to help traditional leaders
understand the peace agenda of the Duterte administration and get their
views for the Bangsamoro peace process.
The Duterte administration’s blue print for peace and development was
presented during the consultation. Issues and concerns as well as the
aspirations of traditional leaders were also brought up.
OPAPP Secretary Jesus Dureza said they are gathering inputs from
traditional leaders on how they envision their roles and contribute in
the peace building efforts of the government.
He underscored the Sultanates’ participation in the peace process as
crucial in responding to the historical injustice to the Bangsamoro
which President Duterte wants to address.
Dureza explained that the present peace road map is inclusive. He said
every group has its own dynamics but they want to pursue inclusivity in
the process where all sectors are involved and will take ownership.
We admit there are scars but we must heal the wounds for peace to work, he added.
Dureza also reminded the traditional leaders that peace agreement is not the only way in addressing the problems of the society.
We can sign and implement many peace agreements but if everyone will
not work to improve their lives, then nothing will happen, he emphasized.
He said the government will provide the needed infrastructure and
framework but the real work should be done by everyone in their own
respective communities. (APB/PIA-10)
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