Security sectors, such as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), join the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS) in tackling the mechanisms on how to effectively prevent violent conflicts in the region during the 4th Bangsamoro Public Order and Safety Conference held in the city on Dec. 20-21, 2023 in Koronadal City. (Photo by Comenei Ali/BIO)
KORONADAL CITY—Bangsamoro Government is enhancing its mechanisms to prevent the occurrence of violent conflicts in the region effectively.
The Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS) spearheaded this effort during the 4th Bangsamoro Public Order and Safety Conference held in the city on Dec. 20-21.
With the theme “Consolidating the Gains of Building an Enduring Peace,” the event sought to establish and further strengthen coordination and collaboration mechanisms with different law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, among others operating in the region.
In his opening message, MPOS Minister Hussein Muñoz said to attain peace, it must be acknowledged that an enduring solution lies not only in dismantling structures of violence but also in addressing the root causes that breed social unrest.
“We recognize the pressing need to confront family feuds, reduce the proliferation of loose firearms, dissolve private armed groups, eradicate the scourge of illegal drugs, and combat all forms of criminal activities,” Muñoz stressed.
Maj. Oliver Dela Cruz of the 6th Infantry Division of the AFP Maguindanao del Norte expressed his commitment of support, saying, “The Philippine Army is fully committed to implementing the preventing and countering violent extremism program, adhering to its objective of effectively addressing the root causes and sustaining its implementations in various sectors of society.”
Atty. Rohairah Lao from the Regional Prosecution Office underscored the role of prosecution—this is to make sure that proper administration of justice is being applied to all, regardless of creed, religion, and tribes.
“We have to accept that we have a bit of tribalism, we have different cultures and traditions, but we have to try our best to be cohesive despite diversity,” Lao said.
Meanwhile, National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM-BARMM) Regional Director Atty. Randy Babao shared his insights about the efforts of the Bangsamoro Government in pursuit of lasting peace.
“In my 12 years of service, I have seen the sincerity of the Bangsamoro government in achieving the goal of sustaining lasting peace in the region,” Babao said.
He added despite lingering stereotypes and perceptions that BARMM has lagged behind other regions, a gradual positive transformation can be observed.
“You will see the sincere governance of the leaders behind it,” he said, attributing this progress to the assistance provided by the Bangsamoro Government.
Throughout the conference, there was a recurring theme emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance and the empowerment of local communities.
Other speakers underscored the need for sustained dialogue and the participation of all sectors, including women and Indigenous Peoples, in peacebuilding efforts. (Majid Nur/BIO)
