PH hailed as global model for successful peace processes

Colombia has recognized the Philippines as a global model for the successful implementation of peace processes, citing Manila’s experience in resolving longstanding conflicts as a source of inspiration for nations facing similar challenges, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) said.

- MARTIN SADONGDONG and ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

The recognition was made as Colombian delegates ended their peace-building study tour in the Philippines earlier this month. The study tour was part of the First Peacebuilding Learning Route under the SouthSouth Cooperation between Manila and Bogota.

Launched in November 2024 in Bogota, the South-South Cooperation Learning Route is an innovative platform for countries in the Global South to collaborate and share their knowledge, experiences, and best practices in peace and development.

The Philippines, through the OPAPRU, was among the four countries that participated in the program which also included Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Nigeria. After a series of webinars and online exchanges, Colombian teams visited each participating country, with the Philippines as the final stop of their multi-country tour.

The study tour aims to "foster direct interaction between teams from partner countries so that they can learn from each other's successes and challenges, fostering mutual support and capacity development." Such routes focus on various sectors like agriculture, health, and education, often involving both governmental and nongovernmental actors.

"The Philippines continues to serve as a model and a source of inspiration for other countries across the globe due to the successful implementation of its peace processes," the OPAPRU said, citing the findings of the Colombian delegates.

The Colombian delegation, led by Ms. Suang Caterine Moreno Gutiérrez, advisor to the CEO of Colombia's Agency for the Renewal of the Territories (ART), met with the Philippine side, represented by OPAPRU Senior Undersecretary Isidro L. Purisima, on Aug. 8 for the presentation of the report.

The private sector was represented by Mr. Jonathan Joson, of Kennemer Eco Solutions, a partner of the OPAPRU in empowering former combatants, indigenous peoples (IPS), and other marginalized groups.

Study tour