MANILA, Philippines — The local government of Butuan City gave recognition to the peace advocates that represent the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPPAP) at the Guingona Park on September 27.

They are part of the so-called “peace buzz” who make rounds in the entire country to spread information about the efforts of the government in achieving long-lasting peace.

From Butuan City, they will visit the cities of Davao and Iligan, and lastly, Marawi City.

OPPAP Undersecretary Jojo Andot said one of their primary goals is to the help the internally-displaced persons  (IDPs) who remain in temporary shelters in Iligan city and other parts of the country.

“With us are the internally-displaced persons and families from Marawi and Lanao del Sur in celebrating our love for the country through our advocacy of long-lasting peace,” said the undersecretary.

One of the benefits provided by the representatives of OPPAP to the IDPs is “social healing package” which includes offering them a livelihood.

OPPAP also vowed to help them prepare to return to Marawi the moment the turmoil in the war-torn city ends.

“Not just on socioeconomic aspect, livelihood, basic services, but also getting ready to become…to strengthen their institutions, because our learning is that our communities are not strong, that they will be able to resist or even inform authorities that there is threat entering the city,” said Andot. — Leslie Longboen | UNTV News & Rescue