Sustains the Gains of Solidarity

The Mindanao Week of Peace, observed annually beginning on the last Thursday in November to the first Wednesday of December, aims to foster unity, harmony, and peace among the diverse communities of Mindanao. This year, the celebration took place from November 28 to December 4, 2024, with a series of events promoting understanding across cultures, religions, and social backgrounds.

A Peace forum themed “Sustaining the Gains of Peace, Solidarity, and Resilience Through Diverse Challenges,” was held at Marian Hall, San Pablo Parish Compound, Matina, Davao City, from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM on December 2 this year.

The forum began with a welcome address by Fr. Alan Rodriguez, Parish Priest of San Pablo, who echoed Pope Francis’ call for peace and unity. This was followed by an inter-religious prayer service, where leaders from different faiths came together. Aleem Omar Abdulla led the Islamic prayer, Matanaw Jonathan Awing the Lumad prayer, and Pastor Grace Bangisan and Rev. Fr. Pepe Retorca led the Christian prayer.

Participants were then recognized for their contributions to peace efforts, and Rev. Fr. Jovilo B. Bongay, Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist in Lasang, Davao City, performed a special song that highlighted the importance of peace and unity.

The event featured a keynote address by Professor Edfer R. Fernandez, Secretary General of Sports for Peace, Mindanao. He emphasized the role of sports in fostering peace and unity, highlighting how sports can bridge cultural and religious divides.

In the open forum that followed, Most. Rev. George B. Remando, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Davao, encouraged attendees to embody peace in their daily lives, particularly within families and local church communities (GKKs). The forum concluded with the closing remarks of Rev. Fr. Pedro P. Lamata, Director of the Archdiocesan Center for Ecumenical and Interreligious Dialogue (ACEID), who reminded everyone that true peace comes from God, who is the source of all peace. (Sem. Aljon Mayol)