In a reaffirmation of their shared dedication to fostering peace and development, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Government of Japan have launched a groundbreaking project titled "Enhancing and Sustaining Peace and Security Mechanisms in Mindanao, Philippines."
Officially unveiled on March 31, this initiative signifies a renewed commitment to fortifying the Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPST) in Mindanao, empowering them as pivotal agents of peace and progress in the region.
The JPST epitomizes the collaborative ethos driving peacebuilding endeavors in Mindanao. Drawing members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the JPST embodies a unique transitional peace and security framework.
Since its establishment in 2019, JPSTs have been deployed to 24 conflict-prone areas across Mindanao, striving to uphold peace, manage conflicts, and facilitate resolutions. However, recent challenges such as natural disasters and security incidents underscore the imperative for bolstered support and capacity building within the JPST.
Strengthening Peace Capacities
With generous funding of $2.58 million from the Government of Japan, the project aims to directly address these challenges. It will deliver comprehensive training to JPST members, emphasizing community-centered approaches to safeguarding and providing essential logistics and communication equipment. Moreover, the project will oversee the refurbishment of JPST stations and extend vital socio-economic aid to affected communities.
Kazuhiko Koshikawa, the Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, highlighted the indispensable role of frontline enforcers in securing lasting peace in Mindanao. He expressed confidence that this initiative would enhance the resilience and efficacy of JPSTs, enabling them to serve as unwavering guardians of peace and stability in the region.
On the other hand, Tristan Burnett, IOM Philippines Chief of Mission, reaffirmed the organization's steadfast commitment to supporting peace agreement implementation. He underscored the significance of JPST in the Bangsamoro peace process and its potential to catalyze positive transformations in conflict-affected communities.
Forging Progressive Partnerships
Isidro Purisima, Senior Undersecretary of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity, hailed the partnership between the Philippines and Japan as a testament to international cooperation and solidarity. He emphasized that by enhancing JPST capabilities and welfare, this collaboration charts a course towards a brighter future not only for the Bangsamoro people but for the nation as a whole.
A Unified Effort
The project will be executed in close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), the Joint Normalization Committee (JNC), the Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC), the security sector, the Bangsamoro Government, local government units, and beneficiary communities. Together, they stand united in their pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous Mindanao.
