MAKILALA, Cotabato — Demonstrating resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to peace and community development, members of the Makilala Integrated Peace Advocates Farmers Association (MIPAFA) carried out another round of Pintakasi or bayanihan activities for their Rice and Grocery Project in Barangay Malasila on June 21, despite persistent rains.
Officers and members of the association gathered to clean, repair, and improve the project facility as part of ongoing preparations for its full operation. The initiative aims to provide a sustainable source of income for MIPAFA members and their families while contributing to the economic development of the community.
The activity showcased the strong spirit of cooperation among former rebels and peace advocates who have chosen the path of peace and development. Their collective efforts highlighted how communities can transform through unity, hard work, and shared aspirations.
According to MIPAFA leaders, the Rice and Grocery Project is envisioned to become a long-term livelihood enterprise that will help strengthen the economic stability of members and support their reintegration and productive participation in society.
The bayanihan activity also coincided with a simple yet meaningful celebration of Father’s Day, during which members honored fathers within the organization for their sacrifices, dedication, and unwavering commitment to their families and communities.
Despite unfavorable weather conditions, participants remained determined to complete the day’s tasks, proving that no amount of rain or hardship can stop an organization united by a common purpose.
Norma Capuyan, Chairperson of MIPAFA and a known peace advocate, underscored the significance of the activity, saying that the event reflects the organization’s consistency and steadfastness in advancing peace and development initiatives among former rebels and conflict-affected communities.
“Our continued bayanihan activities demonstrate that former rebels are not only capable of rebuilding their own lives but are also committed to becoming active partners in nation-building,” Capuyan said.
She added that MIPAFA hopes to inspire other former rebel organizations across the country to pursue similar livelihood and community-based initiatives anchored on unity, self-reliance, and peace.
Capuyan further shared that the organization is actively reaching out to former rebels in various municipalities with plans to establish local chapters and eventually strengthen a province-wide network of peace advocates. Through this provincial formation, MIPAFA aims to extend livelihood opportunities, capacity-building programs, and other benefits not only to former rebels but also to their families and communities.
“We want to show that through unity and collective action, we can create sustainable opportunities for our members and become instruments of peace and development in our respective communities,” she emphasized.
MIPAFA expressed its appreciation to all members who volunteered their time, energy, and dedication, emphasizing that the success of the project is a testament to the enduring power of bayanihan.
The continuing efforts of MIPAFA reflect the broader gains of the government’s peace and development initiatives, where former conflict-affected individuals and communities are now actively contributing to local development, social cohesion, and lasting peace.
Indeed, even amid challenges, the spirit of bayanihan continues to thrive in Barangay Malasila – strengthening not only livelihoods but also the foundations of peace, unity, and inclusive development.
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