TANGCAL, Lanao de Norte (PIA)--In its continuous and steadfast solidarity in realizing just and lasting peace in the province, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Lanao del Norte unites Muslims, Christians, and other groups through its joint flag-raising and peace and development conversations, February 13.
Initiated by DILG Lanao del Norte through Provincial Director Bruce Augusto Colao, the activity aimed to establish peace and development in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), furthering the department’s thrust of ensuring peace and order in the country.
Under the same banner
Colao explained that the joint flag-raising symbolizes unity amidst diversity and is one of the national government’s ways of showing that peace is positive when everyone works in solidarity.
"Ginawa natin ang joint flag raising para mapakita natin sa ating sarili, sa mga kabataan, sa lahat, na tayo ay nagkakaisa sa iisang bandila. Kay kung naa kita'y kalinaw, naa man gyud ang development (The joint flag raising was realized to show everyone that we are all united under the same banner. If there is peace, there is development)," he uttered.
Members and leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) 125th Base Command, the Philippine Army (PA) 5th Mechanized Battalion, Philippine National Police (PNP), LGU officials and functionaries of Tangcal, punong barangays, and other partners in peace-building initiatives in Lanao del Norte took part in the activity and vowed to support and sustain peace and development in the area.
Meanwhile, DILG-10 Regional Director Wilhelm M. Suyko stressed that peace is possible through the concerted efforts of both the national and local governments, national government agencies, and civilians.
"Pinaagi sap ag tinabangay nga gipakita sa atong nasyonal ug lokal nga gobyerno sa pagdala sa kalamboan sa GIDAs, ang kalinaw nagpabilin ug nagpadayun sa pag uswag, (Through the commitment and efforts of everyone, our road to peace and development has remained on track and continues to gain momentum)," he stressed.
Unity amidst diversity
On the other hand, former Congressman Abdullah Dimaporo calls on everyone to continue to carry out the peacebuilding initiatives of the municipality and reminds the people that recognizing diverse cultures, religious beliefs, and social statuses creates an inclusive environment for everyone.
Furthermore, the activity also highlighted the turnover and acceptance ceremony of DILG-funded projects under the Assistance to Municipalities (AM) and Conditional Matching Grant to Provinces (CMGP), which benefited the residents of Tangcal with various livelihood and infrastructure projects. (DILG-10/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
