In pursuit of peacebuilding and social justice in Mindanao and for the Common Home, the Ateneo de Davao University through the SAMAHAN launched this year’s Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) with the theme “Environmental care, and resilience to Climate change: Action for Peace.”

SAMAHAN Secretary-General Renz Lacorte explained that this year’s MWOP is anchored on three main goals — strengthening of student engagement in peacebuilding, emphasizing repudiation of war and violence, and highlighting the power of the youth to advocate peace in cyberspace.

“The power of the youth to advocate peace in cyberspace includes verified news sharing, life-giving and value-adding storytelling, and peaceful conversations,” he said.

Ms. Lilibeth Leh-Arcena of the Arrupe Office of Social Formation reminded everyone on the call of reconciliation and justice anchored in the General Congregation 36 or the 36th General Congregation of the Society of Jesus.

Meanwhile, University Community Engagement and Advocacy Council Chairperson Mark Paul Samante encouraged everyone to consider the current condition of the environment and its needs.

In the launch, a song presentation was delivered by the students. Blue hearts were also distributed as a symbol of love. The opening was held at the Roxas grounds last November 28.