A study titled “Community-Centric Approaches to Counter-Terrorism: A Policy Brief on Enhancing PCVE through Collaboration,“ published in RSIS International, conducts a comparative analysis of two community-centric social reintegration programs in the Philippines: the AGILA Haven Program in Maguindanao and Ronda Probinsya sa Kalinaw in Sarangani. The primary objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of these localized initiatives in preventing and countering violent extremism (PCVE) and facilitating the successful transition of former violent extremists (FVEs) back into mainstream society.
Methodologically, the research employs a qualitative case study design, integrating primary data collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions involving program participants, community leaders, and key government stakeholders. This approach provides a nuanced understanding of the operational mechanisms and socio-cultural adaptations of each program. The results reveal that both initiatives successfully utilize active community engagement and sustainable livelihood projects to reintegrate FVEs and mitigate the spread of radical ideologies. However, their strategic implementations differ significantly.
AGILA Haven adopts a highly integrated approach that incorporates specialized religious education and localized conflict resolution mechanisms to navigate Maguindanao’s complex socio-cultural and security dynamics.
Conversely, Ronda Probinsya sa Kalinaw leverages the relatively stable environment of Sarangani by focusing heavily on consistent educational interventions and long-term community presence. Despite these achievements, both programs encounter substantial challenges, most notably the relentless recruitment efforts by active extremist factions and the vulnerability associated with fluctuating financial support from governmental and non-governmental entities.
The study concludes that while community-centric approaches are indispensable for the sustainable social reintegration of former extremists, their long-term viability is heavily dependent on institutionalized support. To enhance program efficacy, policymakers must prioritize robust inter-agency collaboration, secure consistent funding streams, and maintain continuous community engagement, as these measures are critical for building resilient communities and advancing broader national security objectives.
