The Royal Norwegian Embassy (RNE) in Manila, in partnership with Sulong Peace Inc. (SPI), conducted a field visit to Negros Island, reaffirming Norway’s commitment to peacebuilding, security cooperation, and participatory governance. The visit, led by Norwegian Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster, coincided with Mt. Kanlaon communities’ 90th day of evacuation under Alert Level 3, highlighting the intersection of conflict resolution, disaster response, and sustainable development.
“For Norway, peace and reconciliation work is long-term. In the Philippines, our cooperation started in 2001 when Norway became the third-party facilitator in the peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP). This visit to Negros underscores Norway’s continuing commitment to the Philippines’ quest towards lasting peace,” said Ambassador Lyster.
“Continuous dialogue reaffirms the role of civil society and local leaders in shaping inclusive, community-driven policies,” said Seth T. Villaruel, SPI Executive Director. “For peace to be lasting, governance must be inclusive, responsive, and centered on community voices, human rights, and sustainable solutions.”
Strengthening Governance and Conflict Recovery
In Bacolod City, the delegation met with Mayor Abelardo Benitez, the 303rd Infantry Brigade, and local PNP units, discussing security conditions, conflict prevention, and disaster response. The engagement emphasized the security sector’s role in stabilizing communities, protecting displaced populations, and strengthening local governance.
In Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, and Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental, the delegation met with Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas (Canlaon) and Mayor Laurence Marxlen dela Cruz (DSB), along with LGU officials and barangay leaders. The discussions reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining peace efforts through strong local governance. SPI also provided updates on its Transitional Justice and Reconciliation (TJR) initiatives, implemented since 2023 to promote participatory governance, human rights advocacy, and capacity-building in conflict-affected areas.
A dialogue with former rebels focused on reintegration challenges and pathways toward dignified livelihoods, reinforcing peace and stability efforts in these communities.
With Mt. Kanlaon’s crisis displacing communities for over 90 days, discussions underscored the importance of integrating peacebuilding with disaster response and recovery planning.
Through sustained engagement, Norway and SPI remain committed to breaking cycles of conflict and fostering an inclusive, lasting peace in Negros.
