Transforming Fragilities Inc. (TFI) participated in the Women, Peace, and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF) Experience in the Philippines, organized by UN Women. The event brought together TFI, UN Women partner NGOs, and civil society organizations from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and was held in General Santos City from August 16 to 17, 2023.
TFI, an implementing partner of UN Women and WPHF, presented research findings and advocacy messages on the role of women in horizontal conflict mediation. In a plenary talk titled “Women Mediators in the BARMM,” TFI’s Executive Director (ED) and Chairperson addressed the challenges women mediators encounter in responding to conflicts in the region.
One of the highlighted findings was, “More women are empowered, but they are empowered differently. More women possess their own unique understanding of empowerment, which may differ from other perspectives, particularly Western perspectives. That empowerment is evident, but it operates within the cultural framework that often dictates men receiving credit for their efforts. The issue lies not in whether women are empowered, but rather in the lack of full recognition of their empowerment.”
The Vice Chairperson of TFI’s Board shared crucial insights on “Women-Led Early Warning and Early Response,” emphasizing the pivotal role of women in achieving lasting peace and development, especially in Mindanao. The Vice Chairperson stated, “We must acknowledge that early warning and early response are pivotal steps towards achieving lasting peace, resilience, and development, particularly in Mindanao. It’s imperative that women contribute to this process, not solely men.”
During the event, TFI also showcased its commitment through a performance of its advocacy song, “Liyab.”
Various discussions were conducted, focusing on topics such as “The Role of Media in Advancing Women, Peace, and Security Agenda,” “Capacity Building of Grassroots Women for Peacebuilding and Development,” and “Advancing the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda: Insights for Action Plans.”
The event culminated with closing remarks by Ma. Rosalyn G. Mesina, Country Programme Coordinator of UN Women Philippines. Mesina summarized the event’s core theme, emphasizing shared visions, transitions, and future actions aimed at establishing an equal, inclusive, and peaceful society.
