A Colombian delegation concluded a peacebuilding study tour in the Philippines this month, citing the country’s success in turning former conflict zones into communities of peace and development. The visit capped the First Peacebuilding Learning Route under South-South Cooperation between the Philippines and Colombia, launched in 2024.
Led by Suang Caterine Moreno Gutiérrez of Colombia’s Agency for the Renewal of the Territories, the group met peace officials in Manila and toured Aklan and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. They observed an amnesty activity, visited livelihood projects of former rebels, and held dialogues with the Bangsamoro Parliament and peace panels.
In Maguindanao del Norte, local leaders highlighted Barira’s transformation from a former Moro Islamic Liberation Front camp to a thriving community. Officials and private sector representatives noted that peace remains the strongest foundation for investment and growth.
The Philippines was the final stop of the multi-country tour, which also included Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Nigeria.
