Manila: The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Wednesday said the formalization of its partnership with globally-recognized Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) showcases its commitment to strengthen evidence-based peacebuilding and conflict resolution in the country.
According to Philippines News Agency, OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. stated that the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with IEP on Monday is a major step in the Philippines’ quest to achieve long-lasting peace, embedding data-driven strategies at the heart of its peacebuilding efforts. He noted that the research and data analysis tools provided by IEP to OPAPRU, such as the Global Peace Index (GPI) and the Positive Peace Framework, have enhanced the implementation and monitoring of OPAPRU’s peace programs.
Galvez mentioned that the initial meetings with IEP have proven beneficial as the MOU will enable OPAPRU to advance its peacebuilding and development efforts significantly. He emphasized the collaboration’s focus on strengthening policies and programs on conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and community resilience. This includes the implementation of capacity-building programs, training sessions, and policy dialogues aimed at empowering local governments and communities.
Galvez assured that the OPAPRU is dedicated to assisting the IEP in providing accurate and detailed information for their research. This will allow other agencies to effectively and efficiently utilize this data. He also highlighted the ongoing efforts to integrate peace metrics into national and local policies to enhance the efficacy of peace interventions.
He expressed confidence that the partnership will not only enhance conflict-sensitive and peace-promoting program initiatives but also inspire increased collaboration between local and international organizations. Meanwhile, IEP country representative Crisostomo Bas Jr. expressed gratitude to OPAPRU for its close cooperation and utilization of IEP’s expertise, particularly in measuring the impact of peace interventions.
Bas noted that the MOU will facilitate more relevant and practical programs, projects, and activities aligned with OPAPRU’s vision of achieving a just and lasting peace. Founded in 2007, the IEP has significantly contributed to discussions around security, defense, terrorism, and development, with its headquarters in Sydney and regional hubs in major cities worldwide.
As a pioneer in researching and studying peace concepts, the IEP is known for its development of tools such as the GPI and the Positive Peace Index (PPI), which are used to assess a nation’s levels of peacefulness. These tools utilize 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators to evaluate societal safety, security, ongoing conflicts, and militarization.
The GPI also calculates the financial burden of violence, which is valued at USD19.1 trillion globally. The Philippines accounts for USD55.9 million of this cost, equivalent to 3.3 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product and roughly PHP25,000 per Filipino each year, as a consequence of conflict.
