Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) emphasized on Friday the importance of maintaining consistent engagement and dialogue with former insurgent groups to sustain peace.
The peace adviser made this remark as the country commemorates the 24th anniversary of the 2000 Peace Agreement between the government and the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa – Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPM-P/RPA/ABB).
Galvez stated that the occasion honors the courageous and determined steps both parties have taken over the years as they walk the path to peace.
“More than two decades since the signing of this agreement, members of the organization, then called RPM-P/RPA/ABB – Tabara-Paduano Group, which now identifies itself as the Kapatiran Para sa Progresong Panlipunan, Inc., or the Kapatiran, have turned away from armed struggle and are now living peaceful and productive lives,” he said.
He also noted that the government is continuously engaging with the Nilo Dela Cruz Group (NDCG) to develop a holistic peace and development agenda, as well as to facilitate their availing of amnesty for qualified applicants.
“The OPAPRU is one with the Kapatiran and the NDCG in seeking to uplift the lives of its members and serve as a platform that will not only bring progress in their lives but also become an example and help transform the lives of those who have returned to the fold of the law,” he added.
While acknowledging that the path to peace is not easy, Galvez praised both parties for remaining true to their vision of a peaceful and prosperous country.
He expressed hope that this partnership would strengthen in the coming years as they continue working towards real and lasting peace.
“Together, let us continue to nurture the seeds of peace and build a brighter future for each and every Filipino,” he concluded.
