Strengthening Women, Peace and Security in the Security Sector through MSU–Maguindanao and Armed Forces of the Philippines Engagement
Mindanao State University – Maguindanao continues to advance its commitment to inclusive peacebuilding through a strategic engagement with the Armed Forces of the Philippines Gender and Development (GAD) Office. The meeting focused on deepening collaboration to further institutionalize the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda within the security sector—highlighting the importance of bridging academic knowledge and frontline peace and security practice.
Representing the AFP GAD Office were CAPT Venus G. Gualdaquever, Chief of the AFP GAD Office; MAJ Sherhannah Paiso-Bahjin, a military professor; and Mr. Michael V. Manaois, Civilian Human Resource representative. The dialogue opened meaningful opportunities for collaboration, particularly in strengthening gender-responsive and peace-oriented approaches within military institutions.
A key highlight of the discussion was the possibility of expanding the University’s Diploma in Women, Peace and Security (DWPS) to members of the AFP. This includes opening opportunities for military officials and personnel to participate in upcoming cohorts of the program. Such a step reflects a shared vision of equipping security actors with the knowledge, tools, and critical perspectives necessary to engage in peacebuilding that is inclusive, context-sensitive, and grounded in human security.
The conversation was further enriched by the presence of Ishmael Bahjin of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), whose participation added depth to the dialogue. His insights emphasized the importance of advancing not only Women, Peace and Security but also Youth, Peace and Security (YPS), alongside other mechanisms that sustain peace processes in the long term. This intersectional approach highlights the need for stronger coordination across sectors to ensure that peacebuilding efforts remain inclusive, intergenerational, and responsive to evolving challenges.
This engagement matters as it underscores the critical role of the security sector in shaping peace outcomes. Integrating WPS and related frameworks within institutions such as the AFP ensures that peace and security efforts go beyond traditional models and actively consider the roles, rights, and lived experiences of women and communities affected by conflict. Through partnerships like this, MSU–Maguindanao continues to position itself as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, capacity-building, and policy influence in the Bangsamoro and beyond.
The MSU–Maguindanao delegation was led by Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona, joined by Dr. Ramjie Y. Odin, Vice Chancellor for Student Services and Development, and Assoc. Prof. Grant Warren D. Lu, Special Assistant to the Chancellor and faculty member of the DWPS program. Their presence reflects a collective institutional commitment to building partnerships that translate advocacy into meaningful action.
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