BUTUAN CITY, Philippines – Leaders of various non-government organizations, socio-civic groups, academe, religious groups and local government officials (LGUs) called yesterday for peace, development and progress, not only in Caraga region but in the entire island of Mindanao during a two-day peace forum and peace road show at Fr. Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) here.

Participants of the two-day forum also discussed key issues, articulated grievances and demands and recommendations for a just and lasting peace.

In the peace forum, participants also heard updates from government peace panel member Jurgette Honculada on the ongoing peace negotiations between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP).

Honculada also spoke on issues confronting Caraga communities such as problems related to mining, illegal logging and delivery of basic services in far-flung areas.