The World Vision Ireland programmes team recently visited the PEACE Mindanao project in the Philippines, to witness firsthand the inspiring efforts of young changemakers in Cotabato and Marawi cities. The project empowers children in Mindanao to step up as role models for peacebuilding, proving that children and youth play a crucial role in building a culture of peace, tolerance, and social cohesion in their communities. 

World Vision’s approach focuses on strengthening local capacities by working with children, youth, faith leaders, and community stakeholders. By promoting inclusive and safe spaces, the project helps young people define their own understanding of peace and how it connects to their daily lives.  The youth we met have lived through challenging experiences related to conflict, but they refuse to let this define them. 

Instead, children and youth are actively working to create inclusive communities 
that welcome everyone.

During the visit, we listened to children and youth who shared their personal experiences and insights on peacebuilding. One of them, Asha, a 19-year-old student from Marawi, highlighted the positive changes in their school after the establishment of Peace Clubs. Similarly, Jamil*, an 18-year-old from Cotabato, shares how the project, particularly his involvement in the Empowering Children as Peacebuilders (ECaP) program, has profoundly shaped him. Through ECAP, he has become more open-minded and accepting of diverse perspectives with greater understanding and tolerance. 

As of December 2024, the PEACE Mindanao project has trained 1,572 students and 1,101 youth in peacebuilding, established 15 School Peace Clubs and 19 Community Peace Clubs, and supported 230 teachers and 37 civil society members in conflict sensitivity training. Through mentoring sessions, peace action plans, and advocacy efforts, young leaders are transforming their communities and influencing local policies for a more peaceful Mindanao. Over 3,000 children, youth, and community members have been empowered to lead peace initiatives in conflict-affected areas through World Vision Philippines’ Promoting Efforts Addressing Conflict through Education in Mindanao (PEACE Mindanao) project, co-funded by the European Union and World Vision Ireland.