PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. has called anew on all political leaders and residents of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to join government efforts to “fortify unity and peace” in the Southern Philippines whose development has been affected by internal conflict for decades.

In a visit to the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) on Thursday (May 11), the top cop saw the mass surrender of 50 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) at Camp Brigadier General Salipada K. Pendatun in Parang, Maguindanao.

He expressed his appreciation for the decision of the BIFF members to embrace peace and work towards a better future for their communities.

During the event, Acorda presented the “Pedtabanga Tanu” livelihood assistance program to the former BIFF members.

The program aims to empower and support the former rebels in their transition to a “peaceful” and productive civilian life.

Through livelihood training, skills development and financial aid, the PNP and its partners are committed to ensuring that the former combatants have sustainable means of income and livelihood, he said.

Acorda likewise presided over the BARMM Stakeholders Summit held at the PRO-BAR headquarters, which brought together key leaders and representatives from various sectors, including the government, civil society, religious groups, and the private sector.

The objective of the summit was to foster dialogue, collaboration and solidarity among stakeholders with a shared commitment to achieving lasting peace and development in the region.

The PNP chief emphasized anew the importance of inclusive and participatory governance, highlighting the need for sustained efforts to address the “root causes” of conflict and promote social cohesion.

The discussions centered around collaborative initiatives, capacity-building programs, and community engagement strategies to build a “united and prosperous Bangsamoro region.”

Acorda also led a command conference with PRO-BAR officials led by Brigadier Gen. Allan C. Nobleza to discuss key issues and strategic plans for maintaining peace and security in the region.

The conference provided an opportunity for open dialogue and information sharing, ensuring a “synchronized” approach to address emerging challenges effectively.

The PNP chief also engaged with the men and women of PRO-BAR and expressed his gratitude to them for their dedication and service, acknowledging their tireless efforts in maintaining law and order in the region.

Acorda, during his talk with his men, reiterated the PNP’s commitment to providing necessary resources, training, and support to enhance the capabilities of the police force in order to enable them to better serve and protect the communities they serve.