Communities in conflict-ridden Mindanao endured a deadly massacre of 57 people in November 2009, just one event in a string of election-related conflict situations. Ongoing tension between and within Christian, Muslim and indigenous communities continues to create violence. But YAP (Young Ambassadors for Peace) is responding by sowing the seeds of peace through ongoing peacebuilding workshops.

Associate Director for Peacemaking, Joy Balazo, oversaw a peace building workshop in June, which took place in Zamboanga del Sur, a province located in the south of Mindanao. Forty-three participants consisting mainly of teachers and local government members joined from communities throughout the province, determined to grow peace in their local areas.

Each YAP workshop begins with participants opening themselves up to the group and identifying where they experienced conflict within themselves. While this was a moving and emotional time for all involved, the life story told by Leti, a local primary school teacher, had a strong impact on Joy. “Leti grew up oppressed by poverty, not only poverty of her basic needs, but poverty of opportunity. When she was a child, she was smarter than average and tried so hard at school,” said Joy. “But she faced many hardships on a daily basis and was often discriminated against for this. She recalled that one day, her school books were swept down a dangerous rapid running river that she was attempting to cross.

“Tears streamed down her face. Leti had held so much pain and anger, and had not cried for 35 years. Emotions such as these can cause anger and conflict. When participants open up and move on from the past, they are able to work towards their future, to be part of peace in Mindanao,” said Joy.

Joy talked with the participants about the recent presidential election that took place on May 10th, and the violence that surrounded it. Joy responded by stressing that it’s important to leave the past in the past, and instead be part of the solution.

“The YAP philosophy means that we must move forward,” Joy said.

“What is done is done. If you are stuck in the past, then you cannot move forward. We must be part of the solution if we are to spread the seeds of peace in Mindanao.”

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