Panaghiusa ug Kalinaw: Liceo Forum Highlights Peace, Cultural Heritage
In
commemoration of the International Day of Peace, Liceo de Cagayan University,
through the College of Arts and Sciences, spearheaded a peace forum themed
“Panaghiusa ug Kalinaw: Pagpahigayon sa Lumadnong Kaalam ug Bahandi” on
September 23 at the Liceo Civic Center.
The
half-day forum gathered stakeholders from various sectors, religious
organizations, Indigenous Peoples (IP) representatives, and uniformed
personnel, in a dialogue that underscored the importance of unity, respect for
cultural heritage, and collaborative peacebuilding.
Dr.
Salvador C. Dela Peña III, CAS dean, opened the program with welcome remarks,
emphasizing the university’s commitment to serve as a platform for critical
conversations on peace and social harmony. This was followed by a rationale
delivered by Mr. Renee B. Cagas, who framed the discussion as a response to
both global and local calls for inclusive dialogue.
The
keynote address was delivered by Dr. Mark Anthony J. Torres, a noted peace
studies scholar, who underscored the role of indigenous knowledge and cultural
treasures in sustaining long-term peace. “True peace requires listening to the
wisdom of communities who have long nurtured harmony with nature and among
peoples,” Dr. Torres said.
In
a rare multi-sectoral exchange, the forum was enriched by the insights of Fr.
Roger M. Gabac (Church Representative), Mrs. Nena “Bae Rose” U. Lumandong (IP
Representative), and Capt. Sancho S. Tomaquin Jr. (QMS) PA (Military). Their
voices highlighted the value of bridging divides through shared understanding
and cooperation.
Intermission
numbers by the CAS Music Program and folkloric performances by Liceo SHS
students enriched the forum, showcasing how arts and culture contribute to
peace advocacy.
In
her closing remarks, Ms. Lourdes Leonora R. Mendoza, emphasized Liceo’s role as
an academic catalyst for social engagement. “Through platforms like this, we
hope to inspire our students and partners to take part in building peace, not
just as an abstract ideal but as a lived reality,” she said.
The
Peace Forum reflects Liceo de Cagayan University’s broader mission to champion
holistic education that extends beyond the classroom, fostering dialogue,
inclusivity, and cultural awareness in Northern Mindanao.
Photos
by: Liceo Creatives - Airon Chiu, Miguel Benedict Escudero, Zanah Ayonayon, and
Josalisel Lutao