MANILA, Philippines?The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) vows to make peace possible in war-torn Mindanao this year by stopping attacks for rebel groups, Secretary Ronaldo Puno said on Tuesday.

In an interview after Puno?s joint New Year?s Call at Camp Crame, he said that he also wanted more interaction between uniformed personnel and civilians to restore trust among police, firemen, and jail officials.

The New Year?s Call was attended by officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), among others.

?Never underestimate the importance of the interaction with those that you work with in the communities. Sometimes we are so used to criticisms that we forget the few who already appreciate what we do,? Puno said in his speech.

?There are many out there who appreciate the sacrifice that you undertake every single day. Just remember always, that the sacrifice that you make is compensated for by the upliftment and the improved lives of everyone around you,? he said.

Puno also called on officials of the PNP, BJMP, and BFP to work together for peace.

?It is important that we make sacrifices this year so we could achieve peace and good life for our countrymen,? he said.

Puno added that the speedy implementation of the PNP?s moral transformation program is key to preventing scandals and lapses in the organization.