In a meeting held to get the consensus on the proposed activities and establish unity in making the Week of Peace a successful one between and among national line agencies, schools and universities, Mayor Eldwin Alibutdan said, “Peace is not a problem of a particular entity or organization, rather, peace in Mindanao is everybody’s concern.” Mayor Alibutdan further stated that “peace is a long process, it is a journey, and everyone must be proactive.”
The opening program included Walk for Peace during on November 29 organized by the LGU of Ipil.
Other activities include a Cultural Show on November 30, showcasing the rich and diverse culture which flourished in Zamboanga Sibugay Province and likewise depicting a peaceful and harmonious co-existence among the residents despite the apparent cultural differences.
A Youth Peace Camp was held on December 1-2 at Marcelo Spinola Memorial School. Barangays Tenan, Bangkerohan and Magdaup were recipients of the outreach feeding program on December 3 while December 4 was devoted to Pride Campaign in Buluan Island with a symposium and mangrove planting. The celebration culminated on December 5 with a “Bangkete sa Panaghiusa,” (Feast/Banquet of Unity) which is an evidence of unity despite sheer diversity.
Apart from implementing agrarian reform in the country, DAR is also works for lasting peace in the country, Rizzel B. Villanueva, DAR-Sibugay head, said. (BCJ/DAR-Sibugay/PIA9/alt)