South Cotabato, Philippines — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato gathered Friends Rescued (FRs) and Former Violent Extremists (FVEs), government agencies, and peace partners for the 4th FR and FVE Summit 2026 on September 25 at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center, reaffirming the province’s commitment to sustaining peace and empowering communities.
Anchored on the theme “Building Peace. Empowering Communities. Securing the Future,” the summit highlighted the continuing partnership between the government and communities in addressing the root causes of conflict and creating opportunities for individuals and families transitioning toward peaceful and productive lives.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia Bautista, RSW, recognized the contributions of the FRs and FVEs to the province’s peacebuilding efforts.
“Mabuhay ang ating mga FR at FVE. Mabuhay ang ating mga katuwang sa kapayapaan,” Bautista said.
Vice Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. emphasized that achieving lasting peace requires the participation and cooperation of communities alongside the government.
“Government cannot do it alone. Kailangan ang tulong ninyong lahat,” Pingoy said, while thanking the FRs and FVEs for their decision to return to the government and communities.
He also underscored the importance of maintaining the gains in peace and order in South Cotabato through continued cooperation among stakeholders.
In his message, Undersecretary Angelito M. De Leon stressed that peacebuilding goes beyond the work of the security sector, emphasizing the role of good governance in addressing the conditions that contribute to insurgency and conflict.
“Ang insurgency po ay hindi isang problema o suliranin na mabibigyan ng solusyon ng ating security sector because it is a governance concern,” De Leon said.
He explained that effective governance can help create an environment where development and opportunities can reach communities.
De Leon also emphasized that peace is no longer simply an aspiration but can become a reality through cooperation between government and communities.
“Ang kapayapaan ay hindi lang isang pangarap, kundi isang katotohanan na maganda ang pagtutulungan ng gobyerno at ng mga komunidad,” he said.
He further assured the FRs and FVEs that government programs and interventions for them will continue.
Provincial Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. recalled the early years of his administration and the significant number of individuals who chose to abandon armed struggle and return to the fold of the law.
“Ako’y lubos na nagpapasalamat noong unang buwan pa lang noong umupo ako bilang gobernador ninyo, malapit na dalawang daan na kaagad ang bumaba at sumuko sa inyo,” Tamayo said.
The governor emphasized that the province’s peace gains must be sustained through unity, cooperation, and a governance approach that brings government closer to communities.
He called for an end to division and conflict, stressing that collective action is essential in advancing development and progress.
“Sa pagbabago ng sistema ng gobyerno, hindi na natin kailangang magkahiwalay-hiwalay pa; hindi na natin kailangang mag-away-away pa. Ang pinakaimportante, magkaisa tayo para ipagpatuloy ang ating nasimulan,” Tamayo said.
He added that unity can help communities achieve greater development and progress.
The summit also featured the Showcasing of Provincial Government of South Cotabato Products, Availment of Services, and presentations on programs and interventions available to FRs and FVEs.
Among the services presented were PhilHealth registration, enrollment in the Kabalikat sa Maunlad na Buhay (KALAHI-CIDSS) and other government programs, civil registration, distribution of seedlings, livelihood assistance, and police clearance.
Government agencies and partner offices also showcased programs in agriculture, social welfare, employment, health, peace and order, and other areas intended to support the reintegration and continued development of beneficiaries.
The activity concluded with the awarding of certificates and a closing message, reinforcing the shared commitment of government, FRs and FVEs, and other stakeholders to sustain peace, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for a more secure and progressive South Cotabato.
