PEACE advocates from various sectors gathered on Monday, Sept. 22, to mark the International Day of Peace and renew calls for dialogue, solidarity, and lasting peace in the Philippines and beyond.
The event, led by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), brought together representatives from government, international development partners, academe, civil society, religious groups, business, women, and youth. This year’s observance had the theme “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”
Deputy Presidential Adviser on Peace Undersecretary Isidro Purisima emphasized the importance of coming together to “make peace a lived reality felt by each and every one of us.”
National Youth Commission chairperson Joseph Francisco Ortega underscored the leadership role of youth and women in peace efforts.
“If we want peace to endure, we must build with the hands of the young and the wisdom of the women,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Galvez called on all Filipinos to work hand in hand and further strengthen their commitment to fostering peace as a people and nation.
He noted that the celebration’s theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” is a timely reminder to all of us that peacebuilding is not the work of the government alone but a shared responsibility.”
“Let us continue to build on, sustain, and protect the gains we have achieved with a greater sense of purpose, collaboration, and commitment to realize our shared vision of building a Bagong Pilipinas,” Galvez underscored.
