The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has expressed its support for the recently-signed National Action Plan for Unity, Peace, and Development (NAP-UPD) for 2025 – 2028 which will strengthen the government’s thrust in achieving inclusive and sustainable peace, an agency senior official said.

“The Department is fully committed to the goals of the NAP-UPD 2025–2028. Through continuous partnership with stakeholders, we aim to contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding, social cohesion, and national development,” Undersecretary Alan Tanjusay of the Peace and Development Group (PDG) said on Tuesday (June 24).

The new framework was issued through Memorandum Circular No. 83, s. 2025 issued by the Office of the President (OP) and is anchored on the National Security Policy 2023–2028 and the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, both of which emphasize the government’s commitment to a people-centered, transparent, and human rights-based approach to peace and security.

Aligned with this policy direction, the DSWD through the leadership of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, will continue implementing rights-based and community-driven programs through its Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa–National Program Management Office (PDBBM-NPMO) in conflict-affected and vulnerable areas.

These initiatives include the provision of livelihood support, reintegration services, and targeted social protection interventions aimed at reducing poverty and addressing structural causes of violence and marginalization.

Undersecretary Tanjusay noted that innovations and strong collaboration with local government units (LGUs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) will continue to define a more inclusive and responsive approach to the needs of conflict-affected communities with the direction pushed by the new National Action Plan.

The DSWD official said the agency will remain undeterred in delivering programs that empower communities and strengthen their resilience against conflict, anchored on its mandate to protect the most vulnerable sectors of society. (LSJ)