Peacebuilding Takes More Than Security

DAVAO CITY — Government personnel from different sectors gathered in Davao City for a three-day workshop focused on how communities can approach reintegration, reconciliation and peacebuilding beyond conventional security measures.

Held from September 28 to 30 at the Ritz Hotel, Garden Oases, the training brought together representatives from social welfare, local government, police, the military and other agencies to discuss community engagement, active listening and coordination in supporting people and communities affected by conflict. 1003BDE-Monthly Intake Report-S…

The program, titled “Training on Capability Workshop Rollout: Strengthening Reintegration and Peacebuilding through the Community-Based Restoration and Reconciliation (CBRR) Framework in Local Governance,” brought together participants from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army’s 1003rd Infantry Brigade, among others.

The workshop covered reintegration, reconciliation, peacebuilding and community engagement, but also focused on skills less associated with conventional security work, including active listening and coordination among stakeholders.

For communities dealing with people returning from conflict, these functions can overlap. Reintegration is not limited to an individual’s return from an armed movement; it also involves how government institutions and communities respond to that transition.

The training introduced the participants to the CBRR framework and practical strategies intended to improve community relations and support local peace initiatives. The organizers said the approach can help government personnel engage communities, coordinate with different stakeholders and assist individuals going through the reintegration process.

The activity is part of the community-centered approach to peace and security, recognizing that peacebuilding involves trust, cooperation and community participation alongside security efforts.

For agencies working in communities affected by conflict, the workshop points to a broader role for peacebuilding—one that includes not only maintaining security, but also rebuilding relationships and supporting people as they return to civilian life.