Representatives of the Christian and Islamic community and of the Obo Manobo tribe convened at the Open Field for the launching of the Mindanao Week of Peace last November 28, 2013 with the theme, “Dialogue and Hope, Our Key to Peace.”

According to Theology Department Chairperson Lunar Fayloga, this celebration not only promotes the absence of war but also of peace that is holistic.

“We see the importance of the role of the Christians, Lumads and Muslims in achieving peace. It is not just the work of the government, but all of us must come together,” Fayloga expressed.

Such activity is also part of the University’s advocacy as Director of the Arrupe Office Lilibeth Leh Arcena claimed.

“This is part of the vision-mission of the university wherein we should be able to promote peace. I think it starts with understanding each other’s belief, in the spirit of respect, solidarity and understanding,”Arcena said.

The launching started with a prayer led by Fr. Daniel McNamara, S. J., Ustadz Abdullah Joe Manan, Datu Paulino Landim and Bae Nilda Landim.

This was followed by the symbolic opening of the Mindanao Week of Peace through the releasing of doves.

The weeklong celebration includes a forum, a candle lighting prayer, a Peace Summit, Salidahan, a Walk for Peace and a Peace Camp.