Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento on Monday urged world leaders to remain committed to preserving and building on gains achieved through peace processes.
Sarmiento said the call comes amid continuing conflicts, border disputes, internal power struggles and divisions affecting communities around the world.
“Now, more than ever, the voices of peace champions must not only be amplified, but prevail above the noise of violence, division and unrest,” he said in a statement.
The Philippines joined other countries in observing the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21, this year carrying the theme “Invest in Peace — For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.”
The International Day of Peace was established by the United Nations in 1981 and is observed annually to promote nonviolence, reconciliation and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Sarmiento said the Philippines has made significant gains in its comprehensive peace process this year, citing the signing of the Agreement on the Fulfillment of the 1986 Mt. Data Peace Accord.
He also pointed to the holding of the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, which he said marked the completion of the political track under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
Sarmiento said the country’s experience could serve as an example of how sustained dialogue and reconciliation can produce concrete peace dividends.
“May the peace dividends we have achieved in the Philippines serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to the rest of the world. Let us be the bridge-builders, weavers of social healing, and champions of reconciliation our world so urgently needs,” he said.
