The Mountain Province State University (MPSU), through its Gender and Development Office, joined the orientation on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), Youth, Peace and Security (YPS), and Conflict-Sensitive and Peace Promotion (CSPP) frameworks held in Baguio City on Friday, November 29, 2024.
The activity was organized by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) in partnership with the Cordillera Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC). It aimed to update RGADC members and partner institutions on the significance of these frameworks in shaping responsive policies, programs, and initiatives that address the unique needs of women and youth in the Cordillera region.
The event underscored the principles of inclusivity and equity as essential elements in promoting sustainable development and peace. In particular, the CSPP framework advocates for context-sensitive approaches that consider local dynamics to prevent the escalation of tensions and strengthen peacebuilding efforts within communities.
The orientation was led by Project Development Officer (PDO) V Reñe A. Gandeza and PDO IV Jasmine Tolentino from OPAPRU, who both emphasized the importance of amplifying women’s and youth’s voices in peace and decision-making processes.
“Real change happens when women’s voices are heard and considered by local community leaders,” shared Tolentino, stressing the need to localize WPS initiatives to fit community-specific contexts, laws, and governance structures.
She further explained that while international and national frameworks provide important guidance, localized peace and security initiatives are vital to effectively respond to the realities and priorities of different communities.
The activity reaffirmed the shared commitment of OPAPRU, RGADC, and partners to advancing gender-sensitive, conflict-aware policies that contribute to inclusive, lasting peace in the Cordillera.
The orientation was attended by representatives from the government sector, private organizations, RGADC members, and other stakeholders engaged in peace and development initiatives across the region.
