Establishing the Philippine Institute for Peace and Development: A Literature-Based Feasibility Assessment for Institutionalizing Peacebuilding and Sustainable Development

The persistent challenges of armed conflict, political instability, and underdevelopment in the Philippines underscore the need for a coherent and institutionalized approach to peacebuilding and sustainable development. This literature-based feasibility assessment examines the rationale and prospects for establishing a Philippine Institute for Peace and Development (PIPD) as a dedicated national institution. Drawing on scholarly works, policy documents, and institutional reports, the study analyzes gaps in the country’s existing peace architecture, including fragmentation, project-based programming, and vulnerability to political transitions. While institutions such as the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao have contributed significantly to peace efforts, the absence of a centralized, research-driven body limits long-term policy coherence and institutional memory. Comparative insights from international models, including the United States Institute of Peace and the Berghof Foundation, highlight the importance of legal mandates, financial independence, multi-stakeholder governance, and integration of research, policy, and practice. The findings suggest that establishing an autonomous statutory institute could professionalize peacebuilding, strengthen evidence-based policymaking, and ensure continuity across administrations. By consolidating fragmented initiatives and fostering inclusive partnerships, the proposed PIPD can serve as a strategic platform for advancing sustainable peace and development. The study concludes that institutionalization through an independent national body offers a viable and transformative pathway toward a more resilient and inclusive Philippine society.