In the quest to build lasting peace and prosperity in conflict-affected communities, the Philippine government launched the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program. Managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in close collaboration with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) and local government units (LGUs), this initiative is more than a peacebuilding initiative—it’s a holistic approach to address the roots of conflict through equitable support and the provision of basic social services to Filipinos and their communities.
Legal Basis of the Program
Rooted in the national commitment to address peace and security, the initiative was established in 2011 and is encapsulated in the Philippine Development Plan. It operates under the guidelines of Chapter 9 (2011-2016) and Chapter 8 of the revised plan, highlighting the government’s blueprint for reaching out to isolated, hard-to-reach, and conflict-impacted communities.
Program Impact
Since its inception, PAMANA has been instrumental in driving social progress in areas plagued by unrest. By ensuring the delivery of services without discrimination or delay, it has fostered community empowerment, allowing residents to advocate for their needs effectively. This approach has not only improved the lives of many but has also been a catalyst for peace and understanding.
Direct Aid and Benefits
The program’s direct aid is substantial and diverse, reaching deep into communities with tangible benefits:
- Infrastructure Development: The program has financed the construction of farm-to-market roads and water supply systems, crucial for economic sustainability and daily living.
- Livelihood Assistance: Through sustainable livelihood programs, individuals and families are given a chance to improve their economic status.
- Capacity Building: Training initiatives empower locals with the skills to lead progress and peace-building efforts.
- Educational Support: In partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, this has provided educational assistance to Indigenous communities.
- Healthcare Access: Ensuring healthcare coverage and distributing medical supplies to those most in need.
- Financial Aid: Grants and cash-for-work programs offer immediate financial relief and foster community engagement.
Eligibility and Qualifications
PAMANA is designed to serve communities within seven designated zones known for their vulnerability to conflict. These zones are identified based on historical peace agreements, conflict impact, and the presence of certain groups or activities that have challenged peace efforts.
Requirements
Potential beneficiaries are required to be part of the identified zones for the program and need to demonstrate that they are affected by the conflict. The specific requirements may vary based on the program component for which they are applying.
Program Components
The Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan program consists of targeted initiatives aimed at fostering peace and progress in areas affected by conflict. Here are the key components of the program:
1. Community-Driven Development (CDD)
The CDD approach ensures that the indigenous peoples and local communities are at the heart of planning and implementing projects. This component involves:
- Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plan (ADSDPP) support.
- Engagement with indigenous political structures.
- Collaboration with local government units to align progress with the communities’ needs.
2. Local Government Unit (LGU)-Led Mechanisms
This aspect focuses on strengthening the capacity of LGUs through:
- The DSWD Protective Services Program and Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).
- Capacity-building activities to improve governance and promote economic resilience.
- Provision of cash grants to aid SLP Associations in conflict-affected areas.
3. Institutional Capacity Building
This initiative places significant emphasis on enhancing the abilities of government institutions, including:
- Training on Peace and Conflict-Sensitive Programming (PCSP) for DSWD Field Offices and implementers.
- Policy reforms and governance interventions that address issues of land security, natural resources, identity, and human rights.
4. Peace-Promoting Socio-Economic Interventions
These interventions are designed to directly impact the communities with:
- Infrastructure projects like farm-to-market roads, water systems, and electrification.
- Livelihood programs and assistance for sustainable economic growth.
- Education and healthcare services to meet the basic needs of the communities.
5. Transparent and Accountable Project Implementation
It ensures that:
- Projects are monitored and evaluated for effectiveness and compliance.
- Implementations are transparent with active community participation.
- Results and statuses are publicly shared for accountability.
Step-by-Step Guide on Benefiting from the Program
- Community Identification: DSWD and OPAPP identify eligible communities.
- Community Consultation: Projects are discussed and agreed upon within communities.
- Proposal Submission: Communities submit project proposals that are peace-promoting and conflict-sensitive.
- Assessment and Validation: DSWD conducts a validation and assessment of beneficiaries.
- Funding Allocation: Based on the availability of funds, financial support is provided.
Success Stories / Recent Updates
DSWD Western Visayas Distributes Php 3.9 Million Seed Capital Fund to Livelihood Associations in Tapaz, Capiz
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Western Visayas recently implemented the Sustainable Livelihood Program, providing a significant boost to 13 organized livelihood associations in Tapaz, Capiz. A total of Php 3.9 million worth of Seed Capital Fund (SCF) was distributed, with each association receiving Php 300,000 for the establishment of their proposed and approved livelihood projects. The recipients of the SCF were selected from the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan Program and Executive Order (EO) 70 Program, ensuring that the funds reach those in need and contribute to sustainable economic growth in the region.
DSWD SLP PaMaNa Grants Php 600,000 to MARA-Aquingay Chapter Janiuay Association and Atimonan SLPA
The DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan initiative, has recently provided financial support to the MARA-Aquingay Chapter Janiuay Association and Atimonan Sustainable Livelihood Association (SLPA) in Janiuay, Province of Iloilo. Each association has received Php 300,000 for the 3rd cycle, serving as additional capital for their Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Services and Community Store-Wholesaler. This funding aims to enhance their respective livelihood projects and contribute to the economic progress of the community. The DSWD SLP PaMaNa continues to empower local associations and promote sustainable livelihood opportunities for a prosperous and resilient society.
Barangay Romero A. Rabang, Sr. Transforms Multi-Purpose Building into Isolation Facility and Equips it for COVID-19 Response
Blurb:Barangay Romero A. Rabang, Sr., the Punong Barangay of Conconig East, expressed his gratitude as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently awarded a sub-project under the Kapit-bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn-Indigenous People Community-Driven Development (PAMANA-IP CDD) Program in the town of Santa Lucia, Ilocos Sur. Under his leadership and care, the multi-purpose building was transformed into a temporary isolation facility and equipped with medical tools and equipment to respond to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The PAMANA-IP CDD is one of the programs implemented by the DSWD to assist communities affected by insurgency in the country. This initiative aims to provide support and resources to these communities, enabling them to recover and thrive amidst the challenges they face.
Video: KALAHI CIDSS PAMANA IP-CDD | IP SUCCESS STORY | BARANGAY GUMITAN, MARILOG DISTRICT
In celebration of Indigenous Peoples Month, let’s visit one of the most remote and secluded barangays in Marilog District, Davao City – Barangay Gumitan.
Almost 100% of its residents belong to our indigenous brothers and sisters from the Matigsalog Tribe.
Due to the distance of their location, it can be said that accessing government services or even basic necessities for themselves and their families is a challenge.
Through collective action and effort, let’s discover the projects and changes that have improved their way of life, brought by DSWD Region XI and its programs. Watch this video to learn more.
Conclusion
DSWD programs such as this represents the Philippine government’s comprehensive effort to bridge the gap between conflict and peace, poverty and prosperity. Through diligent application processes and multi-level interventions, this initiative continues to uplift communities, advocate for peace, and lay the foundation for a future where progress is inclusive and just.