MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has designated former Interior and Local Government Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento as the new head of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU).
Malacañang announced on Tuesday that Sarmiento will take over the post previously held by retired General Carlito Galvez Jr.
According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, the appointment signals a shift toward strengthening civilian leadership in the government’s peace initiatives.
She noted that with key security and normalization efforts already in place, the next phase of the peace process will focus more on reconciliation efforts, strengthening local governance, and improving socio-economic reintegration programs.
The Palace emphasized that this transition is particularly important for the Bangsamoro region as it prepares for its first parliamentary elections and continues to implement the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
Officials said Sarmiento’s extensive experience in local government administration makes him well-positioned to lead OPAPRU and continue advancing peace efforts nationwide. The government also urged stakeholders and communities to support his leadership.
Marcos also extended his appreciation to Galvez for his contributions in steering OPAPRU, especially in pushing forward peace agreements and maintaining progress in the Bangsamoro peace process.
ia/xf
