Democratic Progress Institute delegates visit ARMM

Cotabato City (June 26, 2015) – Delegates of the Democratic Progress Institute (DPI), an international group that specializes in conflict resolution, visited the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on Friday, June 26, to discuss the ongoing peace process between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH-MILF).

ARMM Chief of Staff lawyer Rasol Mitmug Jr. with the region’s Public Works and Highways (DPWH-ARMM) Secretary Don Mustapha Loong led a brief discussion on the region’s initiatives on the Bangsamoro transition. During the discussion, Atty. Mitmug also discussed various programs and projects for the region’s constituents.

The aims and objectives of DPI are to broaden the base for dialogue and conflict resolution. This is done through activities, mainly study visits, as well as round table meetings. Participants include members of the Parliament from Turkey’s main political parties, Wise Persons Commission, policy makers and journalists.

DPI was established in consultation with a group of international experts in conflict-affected areas around the world, including Turkey, and other countries such as Peru, South Africa and Ireland. On June 21-27, the delegates conducted a week-long comparative study visit to the Philippines to explore lessons learned from the southern Philippines’ peace process.



“This is an important and timely visit, which comes at a critical point in the Philippines’ peace process in particular in relation to the recent decommissioning of weapons,” said DPI Director Kerim Yildiz. The visit was hosted by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process. (Bureau of Public Information)