The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has partnered with the Bayo Foundation Inc. to integrate women’s empowerment into peacebuilding and development efforts nationwide.
The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed on October 28 during the opening of the Philippine Conference on Women, Peace and Security (PCWPS).
“We in the OPAPRU believe in the power of innovation, creativity, and sustainability. Through this partnership, we will be able to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for women and girls at the grassroots level,” said OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr.
He added, “In the process, we are enhancing their skills, capacitating them to earn a decent living, and empowering them to become instruments of development in their communities.”
Galvez emphasized that the partnership reflects their shared commitment to a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach toward peace and development, uniting the government, civil society, and private sector.
The collaboration supports the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, focusing on livelihood training, psychosocial support, and entrepreneurship for women affected by conflict. It also aligns with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which promotes women’s equal participation in peace and security efforts.
Bayo CEO Anna Marie Lagon announced the start of the HARVEST Creative Community Peace Hub, a project combining peacebuilding and sustainable living through creative community spaces.
“This project will ensure sustainable livelihoods, connect communities to markets, and serve as a bridge to support their growth,” Lagon said.
Galvez welcomed the initiative, noting that existing HARVEST Hubs in Baguio City, Bulacan, and Pasig City serve as models for replication in more priority areas.
