As reported by the Philippine News Agency, the European Union is set to reaffirm its support for peace and development in Mindanao. The EU has been one of the country’s biggest development partners, supporting the peace process in Mindanao through a comprehensive approach that targets the political settlement and socio-economic recovery of vulnerable and conflict-affected areas in the region.
The EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro, who recently visited the Davao Region, has reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting long-term peace and development, citing the region as a priority area for its assistance. The EU has provided more than P8.5 billion in development initiatives to the region, including the Mindanao Peace and Development Rise project, which is one of the EU’s major programs in the region.
The EU’s role in the peace process in the Southern Philippines has been significant, making it one of the biggest and most reliable partners in the region. In the last five years, the region has received more than P8.5 billion, including the recently-adopted EU Action on Partnerships for Peace and Development in Mindanao worth P1.65 billion. The EU’s flagship programs cover good governance, socio-economic development, civil society empowerment, human rights, women and gender equality, peace and security, and the prevention of violent extremism.
The EU has also been working with local stakeholders and civil society, including launching the Youth Sounding Board, a platform for young people to advise the EU on improving engagement with the youth and promoting participation and empowerment. The EU is also seen as a trusted, reliable, and neutral partner, being the third largest trading partner of the Philippines. Its support for the peace process has been instrumental in the region, and it continues to build on its flagship programs to further enhance the agricultural sector and develop rural infrastructure.
