The primary objective of the Learning Visit at Camp Abubakar was to provide firsthand opportunities for FPE101 students to comprehend and appreciate the entirety of the Bangsamoro peace history. It not only enhanced their understanding of Camp Abubakar’s history but also paved the way for them to formulate reflections to be shared within their respective communities of influence.

Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona graced the opening ceremony of the event. She emphasized MSU – Maguindanao’s commitment to instilling peace concepts and values as a way of life for its students. Chancellor Limbona highlighted the unique privilege of FPE101 students at MSU – Maguindanao, being the only MSU campus conducting experiential learning visits in their FPE101 classes.

Expressing their joy in being part of the learning visit, the peace partners conveyed their satisfaction with the collaboration. Sohaila Macadato, BYC Provincial Chief of Staff, remarked that the university’s efforts align with their mission of nurturing more youth peacebuilders in the region. Representing the 549th Commanding Officer LTC Donald Hugo, 2LT Nona Gerafusco shared insights into their programs in the Iranun Corridor areas and their contributions to peacebuilding.

In a thought-provoking session, Provincial Commander Shuaib Adam of the MILF – BIAF led the students on a journey through the storied history of Camp Abubakar. Adam not only provided insights into the historical significance of the camp but also engaged with students by answering their questions and sharing personal narratives from the struggle.

Aside from students, six (6) FPE101 faculty members also participated in the learning visit. Director Grant Lu of the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) underscored the significance of experiential learning, emphasizing that the emotions, insights, and realizations that unfold during such visits are invaluable and cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom setting. Director Lu also extended gratitude to Chancellor Limbona’s Administration for their steadfast support of such educational initiatives.

This immersive learning experience at Camp Abubakar, guided by the expertise of different partnering peace organizations, offers students a unique opportunity to connect with the historical context of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved. The engagement of key figures and institutions highlights the collaborative efforts aimed at enriching the educational experience for the students.

𝘼𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙐𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙙𝙯 𝘿𝙧. 𝙃𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙎𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙖𝙩, 𝙖 𝙝𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙘 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙫𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙩

The focal point of the educational excursion at Camp Abubakar centered on the students’ visit to the dwelling place of the late founder of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Ustadz Dr. Hashim Salamat. Nestled in the mountains of Camp Abubakar in Barira, Maguindanao del Norte, faculty and students embarked on a trek to explore the historical residence. Provincial Commander Adam not only provided enlightening details about the residence but also personally guided them on a tour.

The visit to Ustadz Salamat’s residence served as a profound revelation for the students, shedding light on the unwavering endeavors of Moro leaders in their pursuit of peace and development for the Bangsamoro in the contemporary era. This firsthand encounter allowed the students to recognize the pivotal role they play as custodians of Bangsamoro culture and heritage.

The immersive experience at the residence underscored the enduring commitment of Moro leaders to their cause, leaving an indelible mark on the students’ understanding of the historical and cultural context of the region. The guided tour by Provincial Commander Adam added a valuable layer to their learning, providing insights into the life and contributions of Ustadz Salamat. This visit not only enriched the students’ awareness but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the legacy they are entrusted to uphold as stewards of Bangsamoro culture.

𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙤 𝙒𝙚𝙚𝙠 𝙤𝙛 𝙋𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙩 𝘾𝙖𝙢𝙥 𝘼𝙗𝙪𝙗𝙖𝙠𝙖𝙧

The Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) recognizes Camp Abubakar as a pivotal starting point for the Mindanao Week of Peace. Positioned as the epicenter of the Bangsamoro’s political and armed struggle, the IPDM identifies the theme of this year’s Mindanao Week of Peace, “Peace is Coming Home through Solidarity and Harmony,” as a compelling reason to delve into the profound history of Bangsamoro at Camp Abubakar.

The Mindanao Week of Peace unfolds annually, observed from the last Thursday in November to the first Wednesday of December, as mandated by Proclamation Order No. 127. This proclamation, issued by former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, aims to “recognize the common aspirations of Mindanaons to live in peace, unity, and harmony with each other, regardless of status in life, religion, or culture.”

By choosing Camp Abubakar as a focal point for the Week of Peace, the IPDM underscores the symbolic significance of this location, representing both the challenges faced by the Bangsamoro and their enduring quest for peace. This deliberate choice aligns with the overarching theme of fostering solidarity and harmony, emphasizing the need to revisit and understand the historical roots embedded in Camp Abubakar for a more comprehensive appreciation of the Week of Peace’s objectives.

𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘞𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘋. 𝘓𝘶, 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘚𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘯 𝘔𝘢𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘰, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘭𝘷𝘪𝘯 𝘓𝘰𝘪𝘴 𝘗𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘵