AFP, partners promote 'seeds for peace'

MANILA, Philippines - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday partnered with local and international non-government groups engaged in the distribution and promotion of the so-called “seeds for peace” in conflict-stricken areas of the country.

“We have tied up with AAI’s ‘Seed for Peace’ in line with our ‘Food for Peace’ initiatives. This project is aimed at alleviating the economic plight of the people affected by the nagging insurgency problem and conflicts,” said Lt. Col. Samuel Sagun, commander of the 7th Civil Relations Group (CGR) of the AFP-Civil Military Relations Service (AFP-CRS).

Sagun said that by partnering with various non-government groups under the supervision of the Asia American Initiative (AAI), the AFP will be actively involved in the distribution of three million seeds to conflict-stricken and depressed areas.

AAI along with Joy Foundation and the Norwegian embassy have been promoting peace in conflict areas by bringing food to the tables as well as fostering unity among affected residents through their own efforts.

Also dubbed as “Garden for Peace,” the program is expected to benefit thousands of Muslims, indigenous people and soldiers.

The program intends to heal the wounds of communities affected by severe poverty and armed conflict by actively involving the people in livelihood projects.

Aside from distributing seeds, the soldiers would also train members of the recipient communities on modern methods and techniques in gardening. For instance, the seeds could even be planted in backyards or in empty plastic bottles.

In a simple ceremony held at Camp Aguinaldo yesterday, AAI president Albert Santoli turned over the seeds for distribution to AFP chief Gen. Jessie Dellosa, Father Rocky Evangelista of Tuloy Foundation and other non-government groups.

Sagun added that some three million seeds composed of flowering plants and high-yielding varieties of vegetables will be distributed in Mindanao, the Visayas and Luzon.