Aliah Pacalna Cali-Pascan, DPA, JD
MARAWI CITY — In a powerful demonstration of commitment to lasting peace, a diverse group of leaders and community members in Marawi City recently participated in a comprehensive Conflict Management Training, held from September 3-4, 2025. Organized by the World Vision PEACE Mindanao in collaboration with the Institute for Peace and Development (IPDM) of MSU Marawi City, the event was a timely and significant contribution to the nationwide observance of National Peace Consciousness Month.
The training brought together key stakeholders, including officials from the local government units (LGUs) and barangays, public school teachers, religious leaders, civil society organizations (CSOs), women’s groups, and youth representatives. This broad-based participation underscored the training’s core message: that peacebuilding is a collective responsibility requiring a multi-dimensional approach.
Over the course of two days at Bagumbayan Hall, participants were immersed in a program designed to deepen their understanding of conflict and equip them with practical tools for its resolution. The sessions on Day 1 provided a strong theoretical foundation, exploring the nature, sources, and types of conflict, as well as the critical roles of various stakeholders in social transformation.
“Conflict is a part of life, but how we manage it determines whether it leads to destruction or positive change,” a resource speaker highlighted. The introduction to conflict mapping on the first day laid the groundwork for the hands-on workshops that followed.
Day 2 was a hub of interactive learning. Participants engaged in workshops focused on conflict mapping, mediation, and negotiation. These sessions were particularly impactful, as they moved beyond theory and allowed attendees to practice key skills in a supportive environment. The training also introduced Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and conflict transformation strategies, offering sustainable pathways for peace and development that move beyond simple resolution to addressing the root causes of conflict.
Key insights from the training reaffirmed the vital role of local actors in sustaining peace. It was unanimously recognized that LGUs, CSOs, and faith leaders are indispensable in building a resilient and peaceful community. The training successfully enhanced the participants’ capacity to analyze, mediate, and transform conflicts, giving them the tools to become agents of positive change in their own communities.
“This training is not just about managing disputes; it’s about building a culture of peace,” a participant remarked during the closing ceremony. “We now have a deeper understanding of our role and the practical skills to contribute to a more peaceful Marawi.”
The training concluded with a powerful message of collaboration and shared responsibility. As Marawi City and the rest of the nation celebrate National Peace Consciousness Month, the outcomes of this event serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the community’s unwavering resolve to build a future free from conflict. The skills and partnerships forged during these two days are expected to ripple through the community, strengthening social bonds and contributing to lasting peace and development in Mindanao.
