On April 20-23, 2016, the Ateneo de Davao University held a three-day seminar entitled, “Titayan: Bridging for Peace” (Titayan, being a Maguindanaon term for ‘bridge’), with the hopes of connecting individuals for peace amidst political transitions in the Bangsamoro region.
On its soft opening night, the guests were entertained by several song and dance performances inspired by different Islamic cultures such as Tausug, Manobo, and Maranao tribe followed by a welcoming speech from the University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, SJ.
On the first day, Dr. Chatan Kumar & Professor Rufa Cagoco-Guiamii discussed the protection and implementation of peace agreements during the political transitions – even without legislation.
“There are still many problems in this issue but one should not lose hope,” Kumar said.
Shadia Marhaban, Major Carlos Sol and Butch Malang, on the other hand, tackled the interim arrangements to maintain momentum and security while ongoing a political transition.
Finally, Dr. Alma Jadallah and Datuan Magon explained the widening participation of political and civic actors in the peace progress. “Everyone has a certain role to play,” Jadallah added.
The participants lends the second day for the topic on the inclusive political transition. The discussions was has been made more thorough as they were subdivided into specific groups. In addition, their objectives were identified through their own action plans.
On the final day, they laid their plenary report and explained their enhancements to the action plan for the improvements of the goals.
By: Mark Ken Mariscal