Diverse peace advocates unite at the Bangsamoro Tri-People Summit, spearheade by the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS), fostering dialogue and collaboration for a harmonious future on Dec. 5-6, 2023 in Davao City. (Michael Camsa/BIO)
DAVAO CITY—Peace advocates from various ethnic groups across the Bangsamoro region gathered for the 2-day Bangsamoro Tri-People Summit on Dec. 5-6 in this city.
Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS) conducted the activity to produce a network and provide a platform for young peace advocates to tackle challenges and opportunities in peacebuilding vis-à-vis diversity.
MPOS Minister Hussein Munoz said, “The Bangsamoro Tri-People summit is not simply an event; it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to embrace diversity, promote inclusivity, and build bridges of peace among the Bangsamoro region’s major ethnic groups.”
He emphasized that the gathering of individuals from diverse cultures, including Muslims, Christians, and Indigenous peoples aims to reaffirm their commitment to peace and solidarity, highlighting the shared belief in the strength of unity and the dedication to constructing a harmonious society.
“I implore every one of you to rise above the boundaries of religion, ethnicity, and social status. It is our responsibility to pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous serious,” he added.
Jazmine Claire Ruz of the Higaunon tribe of Lanao del Sur said the event served as an avenue to represent her tribe which enables her and the rest of the participants to discuss challenges and stereotypes in the society.
“It’s giving me an opportunity to represent my tribe […] the recent bombing in Marawi was blamed on a specific tribe (which is bad); we should be open-minded in resolving conflict,” Ruz stressed.
“This activity is very important because MPOS itself puts emphasis on the differences or diverse cultures to come together in one place can talk and explore each culture and belief I believe we can achieve peace and tranquility inside BARMM region,” she added.
Aniza Aradi, a participant from Basilan representing mixed tribes including Iranun, Tausug, and Sinama, expressed her gratitude for being selected. She conveyed how happy she is, emphasizing that the activity served as an eye-opener for her.
It marked her first encounter with the Kagan tribe, contributing to the expansion of her knowledge about each tribe in the Bangsamoro region.
“As youth peacebuilders we should not be one-sided rather we should be broad-minded in a sense we have to respect and engage with other tribes in the Bangsamoro region,” Aradi said.
Meanwhile, Sittie Janine Gamao, MPOS Peace Program Officer V, emphasized the increased significance of the Mindanao Week of Peace in light of the recent tragic bombing at Mindanao State University in Marawi City.
“It serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for unity and solidarity among the tri-people of Mindanao,” Gamao said. (Majid Nur/BIO)
