Ms. Irene Santiago, former Chair of the Philippine Government’s Peace Panel, led a two-day Discussions on Local Peacebuilding, Bringing New Perspectives on Understanding Peace to MSU Educators
As part of the joint initiatives of UNDP Philippines, the UK Government, and Mindanao State University – Maguindanao through its Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao, a two-day discussion on Local Peacebuilding was held on July 18–19, 2024, at Simeon Datumanong Hall, MSU – Maguindanao Institute of Management. This event aimed to strengthen the faculty’s ability to teach the Diploma in Women, Peace, and Security and other peace programs. The discussions were designed to enhance faculty competencies in teaching local peacebuilding, protracted violent conflicts, positive peace, and gender, while also deepening their understanding of these concepts. At the order of Chancellor Limbona, student representatives were also given the opportunity to participate.
Irene Santiago, a former Chair of the Philippines’ Peace Negotiating Panel and co-founder of the Mindanao Commission on Women, served as the resource speaker. She began by discussing Peace and Conflict, challenging common perceptions of peace and sharing her experiences in peacebuilding, organizing activist groups, and influencing legislation. She then elaborated on what a peaceful society looks like by sharing her experiences in Pakibato and introducing the 8 pillars of positive peace. During the deepening sessions, faculty members shared their reactions and insights, including redefining the meaning of power and addressing challenges in extension projects, as highlighted by Dr. Rowena Benavides, Dean of the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies.
The second day focused on gender, sparking discussions that challenged patriarchal norms. Participants reflected on their roles as faculty members, student leaders, and peacebuilders in the region. This led to the realization of the crucial role faculty members play in gender classes—their understanding and framing of gender issues significantly influence the kind of individuals the university will produce, whether they become gender advocates or perpetrators of gender-based violence. Therefore, the university should ensure that professors of gender classes are well-equipped to facilitate open and guided discussions, helping students understand the concept of gender equality. Chancellor Limbona emphasized the importance of such discussions in creating a better environment and opportunities in the Bangsamoro region and expressed gratitude to Ms. Santiago for her time and expertise. In her closing message, Ms. Santiago appreciated the participation of MSU-Maguindanao faculty members and student leaders and expressed her excitement in supporting upcoming university peace programs such as the Diploma in Women, Peace, and Security, the PhD in Peace Studies, and the integration of peace in all university programs. She commended the student leaders for sharing their perspectives alongside the heads and faculty of the university.
Author: Grant Warren D. Lu