Nasrimah R. Sampaco-Fayez
An important step toward peace and reconciliation in Bangsamoro Region was held today, November 4, 2024, at the International Convention Center of Mindanao State University (MSU) Main Campus in Marawi City. 171 student-grantees, who were children of decommissioned Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants, were awarded educational assistance through the collaborative efforts of the university, the Office of Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), and the Government of the Philippines (GPH).
The ceremonial program commenced with a warm welcome from MSU System President Atty. Basari D. Mapupuno, setting the stage for a day of hope and progress. He delivered a passionate plea to the grantees, stating, “This is your moment. MSU believes in you, in your dreams, and in your ability to bring positive change to your families and communities. This program symbolizes a partnership between you and the institutions that support you, a testament to a peaceful and progressive future.”
Dr. Acram Latiph, Director of the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM), followed with a compelling explanation of the educational assistance program’s role in promoting sustainable peace and development in the Bangsamoro region. He emphasized the program’s crucial role in supporting the children of MILF decommissioned combatants to become future professionals.
MP Atty. Laisa Alamia, Chairperson of the GPH-Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities, urged the student-beneficiaries to strive for excellence in their education, not only for their own benefit but also to help their families, communities, and the entire country. She expressed her gratitude to MSU for its unwavering support of government programs focused on normalization, peace, and development.
Deputy Minister Abdulmaomit Tomawis, also a member of the MILF-TFDCC, delivered a powerful message emphasizing the importance of this collaborative effort. He underscored the shared commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous future for Mindanao, where education plays a vital role in empowering individuals and communities.
The highlight of the event was the ceremonial check release to student-beneficiaries, each receiving PhP25,000.00 for the semester, a sum that will be repeated for the next semester. Mr. Sultan Asren Pacalna Nathangcop, a 4th-year student from the College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) and one of the grantees, shared a heartfelt message, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to pursue his education and contribute to a peaceful Mindanao. His story as the son of a Moro combatant resonated deeply with the audience, filling the atmosphere with emotion.
The program concluded with inspiring words from Sec. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Presidential Adviser on the Office of Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU). He reiterated the government’s steadfast commitment to supporting the program and fostering lasting peace in the region. Drawing from his own personal experience, Sec. Galvez shared his journey from a humble background to a successful career, emphasizing the transformative power of education. He attributed his own achievements to the support of government scholarships and expressed gratitude to the University for its vital role in this initiative.
Following the ceremonial program, a press conference was held with key figures from OPAPRU, MSU, GPH, and MILF peace mechanisms, at the OP Conference Room. These include OPAPRU-Office for Bangsamoro Transformation Presidential Assistant David B. Diciano, Chairperson of GPH-Peace Implementing Panel Presidential Assistant Cesar B. Yano, Head Secretariat of GPH-Peace Implementing Panel Director Farrah Grace V. Naparan, SDU-TFDCC Program Manager Alicia S. Raymundo, and Northwest Mindanao Front Commander and MP Abdullah “Bravo” Macapaar.
The event represents a significant milestone in the journey toward peace and reconciliation in Mindanao as it holds immense promise for a brighter future. The commitment to education, coupled with the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, signifies a strong foundation for lasting peace and prosperous Mindanao.
