Abie Ayao

Abie is the Senior Community Liaison Officer under the Mindanao Rights and Governance program of Oxfam GB in the Philippines. In parts of Mindanao people have experienced frequent displacement due to years of conflict between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Due to a lack of awareness about the rights of civilians affected by war, communities have faced challenges in coping and living within a conflict zone. Oxfam and its local partners have provided training to the local government units, agencies and communities on rights and the protection from threats, risks and disasters caused by conflicts. Abie works with villagers that were affected by armed conflict carrying out assessments to facilitate return of internally displaced persons to the communities. The program builds local capacity in good governance and values in coordination with local authorities. Abie hopes to build his advocacy skills to be able to work more effectively for marginalized men and women.