26/12/2025
On December 17, 2025, College students from the MSU - Department of Library and Information Science and high school students from MSUโIntegrated Laboratory School came together for a meaningful and inspiring event entitled โPeace Within: Foundations of the Third Siderโ centered on the theme: โUnderstanding Self, Identity, and the Role of Youth as Peace Advocates.โ
This program was made possible through the collaboration of American Corner-Marawi, the University Library, MSU-Main, the MSU-Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM), the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), and PeaceCoRe.
The day opened with Atty. Sittie Rahan Jhan B. Ganda, JD, MPA of the NCMF, who shared valuable insights on peace and self-identity, peace and community building, and basic mediation through the lens of the Third Sider. This was followed by an engaging workshop on perspective-taking, active listening, and effective messaging.
In the afternoon, Dr. Aliah Pacalna Cali-Pascan, JD, Sh.L., Peace Action Officer at the MSU-Institute on Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM), discussed conflict realities in Mindanao and highlighted the vital role of youth as peace catalysts. This was complemented by a lecture-workshop led by Prof. Khayronesah P. Abbas, MPA, PhD, Associate Officer for Peace Action at MSU-IPDM, who explored Islamic Values for Peace Leadership, focusing on Wasatiyyah (Moderation), Hikmah (Wisdom), Sabr (Patience), and Shura (Consultation).
The program concluded with students pledging and signing their peace commitments, affirming their role in fostering harmony within their communities.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to all the speakers, organizers, partners, facilitators, volunteers, and participants who worked tirelessly to make this event a success. Special thanks as well to our emcee, Maam Louie H. Solaiman whose professionalism and energy helped guide the program seamlessly. Together, we continue to nurture a culture of peace led by informed and empowered youth.