Davao City, December 18, 2024 — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region XII conducted a benchmarking activity in Davao City to study the acclaimed Peace 911 program, a transformative initiative that has successfully fostered sustainable peace and inclusive governance in conflict-affected areas.
The DILG XII delegation, led by Regional Director Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero, CESE, included Provincial Directors, Division Chiefs, members of the Executive Committee (Execom), and EO 70 Support Staff. They were warmly welcomed by LGOO VI Jessica R. Casas, who represented City Director Vicky P. Arcenas.
Mr. Javilion H. Sucuahi, a representative of Peace 911, provided an in-depth overview of the initiative, emphasizing the concept of positive peace as a measure of societal resilience and the 8 Pillars of Peace that serve as the program’s foundation. He shared that Peace 911 was initially implemented in Paquibato District and selected barangays in Calinan District—areas formerly recognized as strongholds of the New People’s Army (NPA).
One of the program’s significant milestones was the declaration of Paquibato District as insurgency-free just nine months after Peace 911’s launch. This success was achieved through intensive community consultations (Panag-ambit), where Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders and other stakeholders actively participated in dialogues, particularly in addressing land usage concerns. To sustain its gains, Peace 911 has been institutionalized as a division through a City Ordinance.
In closing, Mr. Sucuahi presented the program’s major accomplishments and its lasting impact on conflict-affected communities. He also addressed questions from DILG XII personnel about strategies to win the hearts of the community, especially the involvement of IP leaders. He highlighted that fostering trust through inclusive consultations was key to the initiative’s success.
This benchmarking activity reflects Region XII’s commitment to replicating best practices and strengthening the localization of EO 70, ensuring sustainable peace and development in the region.
