Japan and IOM Collaborate on Mindanao Peace Effort
MANILA — In a significant move to promote peace and security in Mindanao, the Japanese government, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has launched a USD 2.58 million project aimed at rehabilitating peace and security stations in the region. The initiative, titled ‘Enhancing and Sustaining Peace and Security Mechanisms in Mindanao,’ seeks to support the ongoing peace efforts in Mindanao by refurbishing four peace and security stations and providing capacity building for approximately 720 members of the Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) across 24 stations.
According to Philippines News Agency, the 12-month program, commencing in February 2024, will also extend its benefits to 80 JPST members from four community-based organizations by offering them livelihood training and kits. These measures are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the JPSTs, which have been operational since 2019 to ensure security during the decommissioning process of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Comprising members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, and the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces, the JPSTs play a crucial role in maintaining peace in the region.
The decision by the Japanese government to fund this project comes in response to the extended transition period and the damage sustained by some stations due to natural disasters. Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines, Kazuhiko Koshikawa, expressed hope that the strengthened JPST would enhance their performance, particularly in anticipation of the 2025 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election. The ambassador reassured continued support from Japan towards achieving lasting peace and development in Mindanao.
This collaboration marks the second instance of Japan supporting the JPST, acknowledging the critical role these teams play as frontline enforcers of peace-building initiatives in the region. The IOM, in partnership with the Nonviolent Peaceforce, is set to implement the program, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the social and economic capacities of beneficiaries while bolstering their ability to manage conflicts and disasters. The launch event witnessed participation from notable figures, including Deputy Presidential Peace Adviser Senior Undersecretary Isidro Purisima and MILF-Joint Peace and Security Committee Chairperson Abunawas Maslamama, highlighting the collective endeavor towards sustainable peace and development in the Bangsamoro.