In the never ending quest for peace…

Samar peace assembly and consultation workshop set

By NINFA B. QUIRANTE (PIA Samar)
February 27, 2008

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar  –  “Building bridges, waging peace” is the theme adapted by Samar in its never ending quest for peace as stakeholders set Samar Peace Assembly and Consultation Workshop  on March 5-6, 2008.

In a letter addressed to PIA-Samar, Rev. Fr. Cesar Aculan of the Social Action Center and noted by Most Reverend Isabelo Abarquez, Calbayog Bishop, the invitation speaks of the usual cooperation and unity of all to achieve lasting peace in the community.

The letter further said that the achievement of viable and lasting peace is only possible when the capacity of local people are utilized and complemented to the efforts of the government, church-based organizations, media, the academe and other peace sectors.

Based on the attached program, the Bishop of Calbayog will share the limelight with Samar Mayors’ League President Melchor Nacario as keynote speakers.

Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro City Most Reverend Antonio Ledesma, SJ will talk on Church’s Social Teachings on Peace and its Relevance to Present Times.

Another guest, Ms. Priscilla Valmonte of Zamboanga City will tackle “Waging a Culture of Peace”.

Director Romy Halabaso of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Peace Process (OPAPP) will talk on the National Situation and Trends in Peacebuilding.

Finally, Ms. Joven Reyes, Sulong Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) will talk on “Waging Peace through CARHRIHL”.

The workshop aims to surface a broad framework and peace agenda for Samar and to produce an action plan on peace building for adoption by Samar’s Peace Organizations waging for peace.

The workshop will be held at the St. Mary’s College of Catbalogan City (Samar).