Gov’t allots P 9.4 B for peace programs

MANILA, Philippines - The Aquino administration has set aside P9.94 billion for its peace building programs.

Budget Secretary Florencio Abad said peace building, reconstruction and development projects in conflict-torn areas, including the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), are among the priorities of the government under this year’s national budget.

 “Ensuring inclusive growth means creating an environment of stability in various parts of the country. It’s true that the process of peace building is a delicate and complex one, requiring much work and cooperation from both sides,” Abad said.

The budget chief said P7.25 billion would be used for programs and services through the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or PAMANA program.

To bolster the peace process in the ARMM and in support of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, Abad said the government has allocated P2.69 billion for social services to help communities in areas affected by violence.