THE Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) and 78 local government units (LGUs) have forged an agreement to implement 138 peace and development projects nationwide under the government’s PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) program.
The projects, worth ₱3.7 billion for 2025, aim to bring infrastructure and livelihood initiatives to conflict-affected and vulnerable communities across the country.
“This agreement is not about personalities; it is about people, and about results,” said Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr.
“The PAMANA program belongs to the Filipino people. It is their roads, their water systems, their livelihoods, and their future,” he added.
OPAPRU Undersecretary Isidro Purisima said the partnership underscores the government’s goal of inclusive development. “It is about ensuring no Filipino is unseen, unheard, or left behind,” he stressed.
Local government officials cited how PAMANA-funded projects have impacted their communities.
Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro Mayor Ferdinand Maliwanag, a former communist rebel, credited the program for building a ₱60-million farm-to-market road in his town. “
Ayungon, Negros Oriental Mayor Dennis Amancio shared that ₱85 million worth of projects, including roads and flood-control works, brought government presence closer to his people.
Balindong, Lanao del Sur Mayor Amer-Reggie Bagul also expressed gratitude for the construction of a fish landing facility and a water system in his town.
“These projects are made possible through the support of the government. Implementation of these projects will not only symbolize the commitment of the national and local government, but also signify recognition and appreciation of our national security,” Bagul said.
Agusan del Norte Gov. Angelica Rosedell Amante disclosed that her province completed three of four farm-to-market road projects worth ₱317 million under PAMANA Phase 1 last year, earning recognition as the Most Outstanding PAMANA Project Implementer for 2024. “
These roads are more than just infrastructure; they are pathways to peace and progress. They connect remote communities, provide access to markets, and foster trust in the government’s presence and services,” Amante stressed.
Galvez gave assurance that PAMANA projects will undergo strict monitoring and transparent reporting in partnership with the LGUs.
“We recognize that the government must earn trust every single day,” Galvez said.
“Our commitment is to deliver results that speak louder than words, and to ensure these projects uplift lives across generations,” he added.
