In Celebration of Women’s Month, women from different organizations convened and discussed the Role of Women in Conflict-prevention, Peacemaking and Peacebuilding and How to Strengthen the  Role of women in Locally-led Efforts on Building Community Resilience during the Conversation- Reflection on Gender, Community Resilience and Peace Building facilitated by MSU- Gensan and UNDP held in Cotabato City on March 26, 2021. 

Representatives from Bangsamoro Women Commission Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Basilan, Ministry of Social Services and Development, Bangsamoro Islamic Women Auxiliary Brigade (BIWAB), Ministry of Public Order and Safety, and MSU Gensan shared their fruitful insights and perspectives on the role of women in conflict-prevention, peacemaking and peacebuilding. The Panel Members also discussed the vulnerabilities and experiences of women in peacebuilding issues particularly of the Bangsamoro women. 

Meanwhile, during the second Panel Discussion, Representatives from Sarangani Women Tindahan sa Kalinaw, Mindanao Women Advocacy for Good Governance, Balay Mindanaw Foundation Inc., and Office of MP Bainon Karon shared the risks and challenges they experience while working towards strengthening the roles of women especially in the implementation of locally-led efforts for building community resilience. During the discussion, Panel Members were keen in sharing their personal experiences and touching stories from women they meet in the community. 

The comprehensive discussion led to reflections on the good practices of each organization in promoting the role of women in the community. At the end of the event, everyone agreed that women from all walks of life play a pivotal role in achieving community resilience and peacebuilding.