MANILA Feb. 2   – Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Annabelle T. Abaya today said “Projects for Peace” designed to address the root causes of conflict and protection of human rights will be launched in Iloilo on Wednesday.

“The primary objective of the government is to attain a just, comprehensive, and enduring peace and transform the country into one that promotes social justice and equity, tolerance and harmony, and full respect of human rights,” Abaya said.

She said among the types of projects to be funded are those related to peace research and policy advocacy such as conducting workshops, dialogues, and fora; capacity building like orientations, seminars, and trainings; and community-based rehabilitation and development like small infrastructure projects, social services, and start-up livelihood activities.

All projects must be implemented by November 2010.

Projects to be considered as priority are those in conflict-affected areas where rebels from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and New People’s Army (NPA) are present.

 
Also considered priority are projects located in or covering areas under the respective peace agreements or accords with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA), the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletariat Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP/RPA/ABB), and the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa–Mindanao (RPM-M).

Last week, “Projects for Peace” were launched in Metro Manila and Eastern Mindanao.

 
The first phase of the “Projects for Peace” was launched during the Peace Partners’ Forum for Metro Manila and Luzon in Pasig City last January 27, while the second leg was held in Davao City on Jan. 29.