KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – The South Cotabato Kapayapaang Angat Center (SCKAC), under the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (OPSWDO), marked another significant milestone in the province’s peacebuilding efforts as it successfully held the Completion Ceremony of 16 members of the 12th Batch of Friend Rescued (FRs) and Former Violent Extremists (FVEs) who completed the Deradicalization and Reintegration Program.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia L. Bautista emphasized that genuine peace is achieved not only by ending conflict but by restoring lives and creating opportunities for lasting change.
“Every graduate we celebrate today is a testament that transformation is possible when compassion, guidance, and opportunity come together. Peace is not merely the absence of violence—it is the presence of hope, dignity, and meaningful opportunities for every individual to rebuild their lives.”
Bautista underscored that the success of the program reflects the Provincial Government of South Cotabato’s unwavering commitment to inclusive peacebuilding and human development.
“The Provincial Government remains steadfast in ensuring that no one is left behind. Through the Kapayapaang Angat Center and our partner agencies, we continue to provide former rebels and former violent extremists with the support they need to become responsible, productive, and peace-loving members of society. Their success is also the success of the entire community.”
She also expressed gratitude to the various government agencies, security sectors, local government units, civil society organizations, religious groups, development partners, and other stakeholders whose continued collaboration has strengthened the province’s peace initiatives.
The Kapayapaang Angat Center continues to serve as a beacon of hope by providing holistic interventions that address not only the ideological aspects of violent extremism but also the social, psychological, spiritual, and economic needs of its beneficiaries.
Through values formation, psychosocial interventions, livelihood preparation, family engagement, and community reintegration activities, the center equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for a fresh start.
The implementation of the Deradicalization and Reintegration Program was made possible through the unwavering commitment and collective efforts of partner agencies, stakeholders, and peace advocates who continue to work hand in hand in advancing sustainable peace, social healing, and inclusive development throughout South Cotabato.
As the graduates return to their respective communities, they carry with them renewed hope and a shared responsibility to become advocates of peace, reconciliation, and positive change.
The Provincial Government of South Cotabato remains committed to strengthening programs that promote lasting peace, prevent violent extremism, and empower communities through responsive social services under its vision of delivering “Tama kag Maayo nga Serbisyo” for every South Cotabateño.
