RDC tackles peace concerns

PEACE GABS

Marlo L. Lubguban

 BAGUIO – The Regional Development Council and the Regional Peace and Order Council led by their Chair and Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan will hold their 2nd quarter joint meeting on June 18, 2018 in Lagawe, Ifugao.

 On the agenda are various peace and development concerns. Particularly, an accreditation system for civil society organizations (CSOs) is being proposed by the CSOs themselves. This will ideally increase involvement of the private sector in matters of assisting conflict-afflicted (CAAs) and conflict-vulnerable areas (CVAs).

 Several of these CSOs met with the RDC members consisting of representatives from the private sector, RLAs and LGUs, and SUCs last May 2 to voice out their concerns to the government.  CSOs also called for the resumption of peace talks between the national government and the National Democratic Front as they are unwillingly caught in the cross-fire. These were presented in a Peace Dialogue initiated by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

Regarding the Chico River Pump Irrigation project, the RDC and the CSOs agreed to gather more information regarding the conduct of public consultations with the affected people. NCIP will present details on the memorandum of agreement signed by the affected barangays in Pinukpuk which were allegedly informed and gave their consent.

The meeting will be held in Ifugao, a month before the celebrations for the 31st founding anniversary of the Cordillera in July. This meeting will also finalize preparations and agreements between regional executives and NEDA regarding the implementation of the Unity Gong Relay which will involve all Cordillera provinces from July 9 to 15.