The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Monday thanked the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the release of PHP4 billion in funds for the implementation of key projects under its “Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan” (PAMANA) program.

OPAPRU chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the budget will make possible the delivery of much-needed infrastructure projects, such as roads and bridges, and create livelihood and job opportunities particularly in underserved, last-mile communities and areas devastated by previous conflicts.

“While we strive to push forward, build on and sustain the gains of peace, it is also crucial to implement development interventions that aim to improve the lives of our people, particularly the former combatants, and enable them to achieve their full potential,” Galvez said in a news release.

He said peace and development must always go hand in hand and must be pursued simultaneously.

It is the reason why the OPAPRU is working closely with national line agencies as this strategy will enable the government to maximize its resources and carry out strategic interventions where they can have the most impact, Galvez said.

The collaborative approach, as exemplified by the cooperation with DBM and the Public Works and Highways, Social Welfare and Development, Agriculture, and Labor departments, reflects the Marcos administration’s whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach.

Implemented in 2011, the PAMANA Program is a key component of the government’s peace, reconciliation, and unity agenda. (PNA)