Philippines Allocates Over PHP1.4 Billion for PAMANA Peace and Development Program
Manila, The Gulf Observer: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced Wednesday that over PHP1.4 billion will be allocated to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for the continued implementation and monitoring of the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) Program—a key initiative promoting peace and development in conflict-affected and vulnerable communities across the country.
The release of funds was approved by Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, through a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO), in alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to pursue lasting peace and inclusive national development.
“We immediately approved the release of SARO amounting to PHP1.4 billion for the implementation of the PAMANA Program, as we fully support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s peace and national development agenda,” said Pangandaman.
She emphasized the program’s critical role in uplifting underserved communities:
“Mahalaga po na magtuluy-tuloy ang PAMANA Program dahil ito ‘yung nagbibigay-suporta sa pangmatagalang pag-unlad ng lokalidad, lalo na ‘yung mga vulnerable communities sa bansa.”
The PAMANA Program features micro-level interventions aimed at supporting conflict transformation and strengthening peace-building initiatives, while also assisting in reconstruction and development efforts in areas historically impacted by conflict.
The initiative is structured under two main tracks:
- PAMANA Peace and Development Project – This track focuses on empowering conflict-affected and vulnerable regions by improving access to basic services and creating platforms where communities can identify and propose their own development projects.
- A total of PHP351.071 million is allocated for capacity building in 198 target areas across the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga.
- PAMANA LGU-Led Livelihood Track – Implemented in collaboration with local government units, this track supports livelihood assistance programs that complement the community sub-projects of the Peace and Development Track, with the goal of improving the socio-economic conditions of the beneficiaries.
- PHP1.049 billion will be utilized for 981 target areas involving Sustainable Livelihood Associations in regions such as CAR, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Caraga.
According to the DBM, the funds will be sourced from the DSWD’s Specific Budget under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
Of the total appropriation, PHP500 million is earmarked for the peace and development case management process, which aims to facilitate the healing and recovery of individuals, families, and communities affected by armed conflict. This effort is consistent with the Special Provision of the DSWD budget under the FY 2025 GAA.
The PAMANA Program continues to play a vital role in advancing inclusive development and fostering resilience among communities striving to overcome the legacy of armed conflict.
