Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is rolling out interventions for children involved in armed conflict (CIAC) and their families in pilot areas under its PEACE Project.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PEACE Project serves as a framework to deliver rights-based and trauma-informed interventions to children in conflict-affected areas. DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao stated that 17 CIAC and their families in the Davao Region and Northern Mindanao are currently receiving assistance through this initiative.

The PEACE Project was developed by the DSWD's Social Technology Bureau (STB) under Republic Act 11188, or the Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act. It employs a two-pronged approach that focuses on risk-based case management and peace-promoting education for families and communities.

Beneficiaries receive psychological assessments, educational assistance, health services, and livelihood support through the DSWD's Sustainable Livelihood Program. In July, the DSWD expanded its interventions by providing livelihood and skills training with seed capital support to families of CIAC in San Fernando, Bukidnon. Specialized learning modules on community peacebuilding, trauma recovery, and preventing child recruitment were also launched.

Assistant Secretary Dumlao emphasized the collaboration with local government units and partner agencies to address both immediate needs and long-term welfare of young beneficiaries. She highlighted the importance of protecting the youth from conflict and announced the strengthening of local capacity by training social workers and establishing Local Project Management Teams in pilot areas.

The initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to protect children and other vulnerable sectors from violence and exploitation.