CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – In commemoration of the 2023 National Peace Consciousness Month, a Peace Symposium was facilitated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines Peace and Development Office (AFPPDO) on September 28.
“We gather here to explore the intricate nature of peacebuilding in a rapidly changing world. Let us embrace this opportunity to further enhance our knowledge, strengthen our partnerships, and reaffirm our commitment to a more peaceful and secure world. The gains of peace are often very fragile, and consolidating these gains remains to be our key responsibility,” said the Guest of Honor and Speaker, Office of the Special Assistant to the President, Secretary Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr., in a message delivered by Asst. Secretary Ria Danielle Lumapas.
In 2004, September was declared National Peace Consciousness Month under Presidential Proclamation Number 675. The Peace Symposium is annually organized by the AFPPDO which serves as an avenue to promote the significance of the government's all-encompassing peace process and initiatives.
Focusing on the theme: “The Synergy of Peacebuilding Actors in Sustaining the Gains of Peace,” Sec. Lagdameo reminded the guests of the importance of fostering inclusivity in peacebuilding and empowering communities to take an active role in the process.
Speakers were present during the celebration and discussed practices in peace processes in Southeast Asia that provided an understanding of peacebuilding actors in conflict resolution and promoting peace.
“The AFP Peace and Development Office has taken a pivotal role in orchestrating this Peace Symposium 2023, which serves as a testament to our relentless pursuit of peace, a journey that we undertake hand in hand with local and international stakeholders who share our vision and dedication. Together, we aim to illuminate the pathway towards preserving the hard-earned gains of the peace process within our nation, fostering a society where every citizen plays a vital role in sustaining the pillars of peace,” said the Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr in his remarks delivered by The Deputy Chief of Staff, AFP, LtGen Charlton Sean M Gaerlan.///
