27/07/2026
LOOK! Vulnerable communities in MdS and SGA are supported for inclusive governance, peace and justice, and economic resiliency.
The BRIDGE PEACE Project has officially begun its journey toward building more peaceful, resilient, and empowered communities in the Municipality of South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur, and the Municipalities of Kadayangan and Pahamuddin in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of BARMM.
Through a series of Courtesy Calls and Project Orientation sessions, the BRIDGE PEACE Project was formally introduced to the Municipal Local Government Units (MLGUs) and the target barangays—Lamud, Bongo, and Kuya in the Municipality of South Upi on June 30, 2026; Tumbras, Malingao, and Tugal in the Municipality of Kadayangan on July 2, 2026; and Libungan Torreta, Matilac, and Balacayon in the Municipality of Pahamuddin on July 6, 2026.
These engagements marked more than the start of a project—they signified the beginning of a shared commitment among local governments, communities, and development partners to work together in advancing peace, good governance, and inclusive development across conflict-affected communities.
Implemented by a consortium composed of IDEALS, Magungaya Mindanao Incorporated (MMI), Ateneo de Davao University–Madaris Volunteer Program, and technical partner Connected Women, the Boosting Resilience through Inclusive Development, Good Governance, and Women’s Empowerment for Peace in BARMM (BRIDGE PEACE) Programme aims to strengthen community resilience to violent extremism, promote inclusive local and land governance, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities in Maguindanao del Sur and the Special Geographic Areas.
The programme supports communities by strengthening Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) systems, promoting participatory Bangsamoro Barangay Development Planning (BBDP), improving local land governance and Katarungang Pambarangay processes, and empowering local institutions to become more responsive, accountable, and inclusive. It also champions economic and digital inclusion by supporting women, youth, and returnees in developing sustainable livelihoods, enhancing digital skills, and promoting community-based digital initiatives that foster peace and counter violent extremism.
A total of 93 participants joined the orientation activities, including 33 representatives from the Municipality of South Upi and its three covered barangays, 32 representatives from the Municipality of Kadayangan and its target barangays, and 28 representatives from the Municipality of Pahamuddin and its participating barangays.
The Courtesy Calls and Project Orientation sessions provided stakeholders with a clear understanding of the programme's objectives, implementation strategies, and expected outcomes while fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration. More importantly, the activities culminated in the formal commitment, acceptance, and support of the three Municipal Local Government Units and their respective barangays, affirming their readiness to work hand in hand with the consortium throughout the implementation of the BRIDGE PEACE Project.
As BRIDGE PEACE officially takes root in these communities, the programme looks forward to working alongside local governments, community leaders, women, youth, and other stakeholders in building resilient communities where peace, inclusive governance, and sustainable development can thrive for generations to come.
Together, we bridge communities, strengthen resilience, and build a more peaceful BARMM—one partnership at a time.