UNVEILING HARMONY: FOSTERING UNITY THROUGH MINDANAO WEEK OF PEACE
In collaboration with the Notre Dame of Midsayap College Community Extension Services, the Notre Dame of Midsayap Personnel Association Campus Ministry Office conducted the Panagtagbo sa Kalinaw 2023 last December 1- 6, 2023 at the NDMC Premises. This week-long celebration is a culmination of the Mindanao Week of Peace, which honors the aspiration of Mindanaoans to coexist peacefully, harmoniously, and without hindrance from outside influences, be it culture, religion, or social standing.
The launching program started with registration at 7:30 on December 1 at the NDMC Gymnasium. It was followed by an inter-faith prayer and a welcome message from the NDMC's president, Fr. Ramon Maria Bernabe, OMI. As the program continued, Fr. Bernabe, in lieu of the OMF-IRD Executive Director, Fr. Romeo Saniel, OMI, initiated the Peace Forum and gave a short talk. After this, the Sinagdayag Dancers performed various symbolic dances. The first day ended with a Signing for Peace, a Manifesto, and a Zumba for Peace.
The culmination continues on December 4, 2023, using art as an avenue to promote the dream of lifelong peace. The Slogan Making Contest took place during the Sarilikha held at NDMC Primera. In essence, art actively supports a peaceful process. In addition to being a potent tool for fostering communal healing, art may help individuals heal from conflict-related trauma.
On December 5, the giving of peace cards took place. Moreover, on the last day of the celebration, December 6, 2023, NDMC conducted a Solidarity Concert and heard a message from Mr. Reynaldo Postrado, NDMPA President. Afterward, the concert proper started.
Despite the unwanted circumstances happening across the island of Mindanao, the constant promotion of peace signifies the burning passion for achieving a peaceful society and eventually eradicating undesirable stereotypes. Hence, Mindanao Week of Peace's goal is to unite everyone around a common goal and foster harmony within the neighborhood.
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