Nonviolent Peaceforce and SGADA Formalise Partnership for the BABAE Project in SGA-BARMM
22 January 2026 - Mindanao, Philippines: Nonviolent Peaceforce (NP) in the Philippines, and the Special Geographic Area Development Authority (SGADA), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the BABAE Project in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (SGA-BARMM). The ceremonial signing formalises a vital partnership to strengthen the protection, empowerment, and participation of women and youth in conflict-affected communities on the island.
“This partnership with SGADA through the BABAE Project reflects Nonviolent Peaceforce’s unwavering commitment to centring women and youth as leaders in peacebuilding,” said Delsy Ronnie, NP’s Country Director in the Philippines. “By amplifying their voices, giving them a platform to participate in society, and strengthening local protection mechanisms, we are helping to create more resilient and inclusive communities in BARMM.”
Implemented in partnership with UNFPA and funded by the Government of Japan, the BABAE Project will support community-led initiatives to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls, while expanding opportunities for their meaningful involvement in local governance, peace processes, and decision-making. NP and SGADA will work alongside barangay officials, women’s groups, youth networks, civil society partners, and service providers to build safer spaces, enhance referral pathways, and promote gender equality across the SGA.
“This MoU is a stepping stone in our shared vision for safety, participation, and sustainable peace in the SGA-BARMM,” said MP Butch P. Malang, SGADA Administrator. “The BABAE Project in particular, and our partnership with Nonviolent Peaceforce in general, mark an important step in the right direction towards a stable, prosperous region for all of its residents.”
Building on NP’s longstanding, flagship civilian protection work in Mindanao, the BABAE Project applies unarmed, community-rooted approaches that prioritise local leadership and conflict sensitivity. Through this collaboration, NP and SGADA are advancing women’s rights, youth engagement, and inclusive peace for all the different members of the society.
ABOUT NONVIOLENT PEACEFORCE:
Nonviolent Peaceforce (NP) is an international protection agency. Our mission is to protect civilians in violent conflicts through unarmed strategies, build peace side by side with local communities, and advocate for the wider adoption of these approaches to safeguard human lives and dignity.
Contact:
Denise Rafaeli Cadorniga, Regional Communications Officer, Southeast Asia, [email protected],
Media: Mahmoud Shabeeb, Global Media Advisor, [email protected].