OSAP continues peace caravan project in Bangsamoro regions

The Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP) is continuing its 'peace caravan' project across Bangsamoro regions despite delays and a suspension in the final phase of decommissioning Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants.

These caravans aim to deliver essential services directly to former MILF members, MNLF combatants, and their communities affected by armed conflict as part of the normalization track under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

On February 25-26 in Lamitan City, Basilan, the peace caravan reached around 800 beneficiaries, providing services such as agricultural inputs, medical care, civil registration assistance, and educational materials.

Despite delays and a suspension of Phase 4 decommissioning, which affects roughly 14,000 remaining combatants, the government is emphasizing that normalization efforts continue through these caravans.

Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. stressed the importance of continuing normalization efforts to support those eager to transition to civilian life and access related benefits.

The OSAP emphasized in a press release on Monday that the project has proven significant for sustaining peace efforts and providing necessary services to Bangsamoro communities, affirming the government's commitment that 'no Filipino shall be left behind.'

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. also affirmed his administration's dedication to ensuring continuous delivery of social protection services, livelihood support, health care, civil registration, skills training, and educational assistance despite halted decommissioning.