Gagandilan Mindanao Women, Inc.

 Gagandilan Mindanao Women Inc. Honored as National Peace Champion with the Gawad Kapayapaan 2026

SULU, PHILIPPINES — Gagandilan Mindanao Women Inc. (GMWI) marks a profound milestone in its ongoing commitment to grassroots peacebuilding as it receives the prestigious Gawad Kapayapaan 2026, officially designating the organization as a National Peace Champion.

Issued by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), the Gawad Kapayapaan recognizes GMWI’s transformative work across Mindanao, particularly in communities historically impacted by armed conflict and instability.

A Shared Honor

This national recognition is not merely an achievement for GMWI as an institution; it is a tribute to the resilient spirit of the women of Sulu and Mindanao. It belongs to every Gagandilan woman, widow, survivor, youth advocate, and community leader who has repeatedly chosen courage, healing, and dialogue over division.

"This award belongs to the brave women who turned their personal pain into community purpose," said a GMWI representative. "From conflict-affected neighborhoods to local peace tables, women have proven that they are not just victims of war, but indispensable architects of lasting peace."

Grateful for Key Partnerships

The journey to grassroots peace requires collective action. GMWI extends its heartfelt appreciation to:

• The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU): For conferring this meaningful award and continuously elevating the voice of grassroots peacebuilders.

• The Provincial Government of Sulu & Local Municipalities: For creating enabling environments for local peace initiatives and inclusive governance.

• Security Sector Partners: For establishing trust, safety, and constructive collaboration in sensitive communities.

• Funding Organizations, National Line Agencies, & Civil Society: For providing the vital resources and institutional backing necessary to sustain long-term impact.

Advancing Women, Peace, and Security (WPS)

Through these strategic partnerships, GMWI has reinforced critical initiatives across Mindanao:

1. Women, Peace, and Security (WPS Agenda): Elevating women’s leadership in peace negotiations, policy advocacy, and community governance.

2. Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE): Building community resilience through early warning mechanisms, dialogue, and youth engagement.

3. Economic Empowerment & Healing: Providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and psychosocial support for widows and conflict survivors.

Looking Ahead

As GMWI accepts this national honor, it reaffirms its dedication to building peace from the ground up—one woman, one family, and one community at a time.

Gagandilan Mindanao Women Inc. — Courageous women, courageous communities, building peace together.