by Louise Francine M. Socillo
In order to raise awareness and invite people to participate in peacebuilding efforts, the History Department conducted a lecture series on various topics relevant to the Marawi Siege. The three-part series was held in January and February at the Institute Mini-Theater.
Citing the complexities surrounding the Marawi Siege and the numerous misunderstandings arising from it, Historical Society President Dirb Bry Sebrero shared the History’s Department’s desire to dispel misconceptions by disseminating information regarding Meranao history and culture which may hold the key to understanding the root causes, analyzing the impact, and coming up with possible remedies for the damage brought on sought by the siege.
The lecture series tackled ridô, historical injustices, and peacebuilding inititatives in the Meranao context. Target participants included not only students but also those who were directly affected by the siege and those who want to contribute to peacebuilding initiatives.
Jamail A. Kamlian, faculty member of the History Department and co-author of Ridô: Clan Feuding and Conflict Management in Mindanao, shared insights from his research on ridô during the first lecture held on January 24, 2018.
During the discussion, an impassioned exchange of ideas among the participants ensued. Possible government interventions regarding the practice of ridô were also tackled.
Dr. Kamlian talks about common misconceptions on ridô (Photo by the Historical Society)
History Department chairperson Rohane M. Derogongan talked about historical injustices suffered by Muslim Filipinos during the second lecture on January 31, 2018. She highlighted the need to be at peace with the past in order to avoid problems in the present and the near future.
The series concluded with a lecture focusing on peacebuilding on February 7, 2018. Norjannah B. Bao and Jed B. Otano, faculty members of the History Department and special assistants of the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao, served as resource speakers of the said activity. They emphasized the crucial role of the youth in peacebuilding initiatives as well as the importance of rights awareness.
Topics : Lecture Series Peacebuilding