25/07/2026
Look! MSU-Gensan IPDM Joins 3rd Advanced WPS Course in BARMM
As part of the preparation for the upcoming offering of the Diploma on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) by MSU-Gensan’s Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH), and in line with the institute’s initiative to integrate WPS into Peace Education courses, IPDM Director Najifah Macaraya represented MSU-Gensan in the 3rd Advanced WPS Course for Practitioners under the BARMM Localized Interactive Field Training on WPS (LIFT-WPS).
This cohort was participated in by 23 WPS practitioners, including Prof. Macaraya, who engaged in meaningful exchanges and field immersion in the Ligawasan community. The training provided a deeper understanding of the WPS agenda within local contexts, emphasizing not only its theoretical foundations but also its praxis, particularly in addressing pressing issues such as climate change and its impacts on women, children, and communities as a whole.
Participants had the opportunity to learn directly from the community, enriching their perspectives on how WPS can be applied in practice. The experience highlighted the importance of contextualizing peacebuilding frameworks to ensure inclusivity and sustainability.
MSU-Gensan extends its heartfelt gratitude to UN Women Philippines , the Bangsamoro Peace Institute, and the Ministry of Peace, Order, and Security for organizing this significant initiative. Special thanks are also given to Mayor Mielyn D. Ali-Diamla for allowing participants to explore the beauty of the Ligawasan Marsh, which added depth to the learning journey.
The event was also joined by UN Women WPS Ambassadress, Miss Bianca Gonzales, who delivered an inspiring discussion on the importance of storytelling in advocacy. Her insights emphasized how narratives can powerfully shape awareness, mobilize communities, and sustain the momentum of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda.
Although MSU-Gensan is located outside BARMM, the institute continues to serve communities beyond its immediate boundaries, reflecting its commitment to extending peacebuilding efforts where they are most needed. This course strengthens MSU-Gensan IPDM’s mission to champion Women, Peace, and Security and reinforces its role in advancing inclusive peace education and community engagement.
The office also gives due credit to Chancellor Atty. Shidik Abantas for his full support in promoting the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. With his leadership, the institute is inspired to pursue more initiatives that advance WPS in both academic programs and community engagements.
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