Partners in peace

Today is the International Day of Peace, a day for all humanity to commit to peace above all differences and to contribute to building a culture of peace. Sadly the Philippines is home to some of the longest running internal conflicts in the Indo-Pacific region. But as I have found during my time here, it is also home to some of the most inspiring, committed and innovative peacebuilders.

In May this year I took the Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific to Cotabato. We met with a group of youth leaders from the Iranun corridor, just north of Cotabato. These young women and men are helping to prevent and resolve conflict. Through their ideas, passion and determination they are working to keep their communities safe. They are truly inspirational.

I am proud of the contribution that Australia is making to peace in the Philippines. For over 20 years we have supported the peace process between the Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. I was delighted to see the signing of the Bangsamoro Organic Law in July, a once in a generation opportunity to secure a lasting peace in the region.

We are supporting development projects in conflict-affected Mindanao that make a real difference to the communities there, including water systems, local roads and livelihoods projects. These help build confidence in the peace process and help demonstrate that peace brings development.

We also work with local non-government organisations that help resolve conflict and promote dialogue. They also support the engagement of women in the peace process and in political leadership, and help strengthen community cohesion.

As shown by the tragedy of Marawi City, the biggest threat to peace in Mindanao is the violent ideology of the Islamic State. Australia stands with the Philippines in its commitment to combat terrorism. We know that the force of arms alone cannot win the fight against terrorism. Only by working with local communities to resist the influence of these groups can the war be won. That is why we support work with religious and community leaders, young people and parents, to help people stay on the path to peace.

Australia is committed to assisting residents displaced from Marawi City until they can safely return home, as well as to the recovery and reconstruction of Marawi City. We are providing food, education and livelihoods assistance. And we are supporting Task Force Bangon Marawi to address the enormous challenge in planning for and delivering the reconstruction.

In late July, I visited Iligan for the launch of the Marawi Reconstruction Conflict Watch. This important group of community leaders from Marawi City understands local conflict dynamics. They will help the Philippine Government and other partners ensure that the reconstruction of Marawi is peaceful and sensitive to the unique culture of the area.

While in Iligan, I saw the award-winning documentary ‘Maratabat’, which Australia supported through one of our NGO partners. This documentary showcases some of the unsung heroes of the siege of Marawi: the volunteer rescue squads who, unarmed, escorted to safety trapped residents, Christian and Muslim alike. Their inspiring story is a vital counter to the negative stereotypes that can persist after violent conflict. I encourage people to watch the documentary and promote it widely.

The people of the Bangsamoro will soon vote on whether to accept the Bangsamoro Organic Law. If the law is accepted, the Philippines will be presented with an opportunity to secure a just and lasting peace, where there has been so much conflict for so long. Be assured that Australia will continue to work with the Philippines Government, and with the people of Mindanao, as a partner in peace.

You can watch the award-winning documentary ‘Maratabat’ at: www.international-alert.org/media/philippines-honor-stories-valor-marawi

(Amanda Gorely is the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines.  Follow her on Twitter @AusAmbPH)