(First in a Series)

by Josefa P. Dampilag, Pacita E. Gawaen, Genevieve B. Kupang, Christine S. Luyosen, Alaska J. Turaray

The 3rd World March (3WM) for Peace and Nonviolence was more than just a gathering—it was a powerful testament to humanity’s enduring yearning for harmony and compassion. Held on October 21, 2024, at the Margarita J. Fernandez Hall of Baguio Central University, the event resonated like a symphony of peace, each moment contributing to a grand crescendo of hope. The gathering was attended by BCU administrators, faculty, students, and both local and international guests, all united in their commitment to peace.

The following significant personalities shared their insights and wisdom during the event: Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, BCU President; Honorable Benjamin B. Magalong, Mayor of Baguio City; Rev. Br. Ramon R. Caluza, CICM, former CICM Provincial Superior and JPIC Advocate; Gazan refugees Mahadia Soria Franji, Abdelrahman Elfranji, and their son Jumaa Elfranji; Mr. Ryan Javier from UNICEF Philippines; Mr. Wilfredo Alfsen, WM Base Team Member from Chile; Karina Lagdameo Santillan, Asia Editor of Pressenza IPA; Prof. Robert Frederick Hayden Jr., President of WUNI-Leaders; Rafael de la Rubia, founder of World without Wars and Violence; Ms. Tiziana Volta, WM Coordinator for Italy, Switzerland, and the Philippines; representatives from the Philippine-Italian Association; Dr. Genevieve Kupang, Dean of the Graduate School and International Relations Officer; and Dr. Elma D. Donaal, and BCU Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Doctoral students, Josefa Dampilag and Alaska Turaray, signed the ethical commitment to show their solidarity in advocating for both the micro and macro levels of peace education, as well as their support for the 3WM.

The World March for Peace and Nonviolence, initiated by the organization World Without Wars and Violence in 2009, aims to promote social justice, human rights, and peaceful conflict resolution. The first march, held from October 2, 2009, to January 2, 2010, spanned nearly 200,000 kilometers across 90 countries, involving over 400 cities and hundreds of activities, making it “the largest demonstration on Peace and Nonviolence in history” (World Without Wars and Violence, 2010).

Subsequent marches followed, with the second from 2019 to 2020 and this 3WM beginning on October 2, 2024 to January 5, 2025 in San Jose, Costa Rica. The movement’s key objectives include: 1) Advocating for global nuclear disarmament; 2) Promoting the withdrawal of occupying troops; 3) Encouraging reductions in conventional weapons; 4) Supporting non-aggression treaties between nations; 5) Urging governments to renounce war as a conflict resolution method (World Without Wars and Violence, 2024). These efforts seek to cultivate a global culture of nonviolence and peace, reflecting the collective aspiration of those affected by war.

Laughter and smiles are the true gifts of peace. BCU President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, VPAA Dr. Elma D. Donaal, and WM lead organizer, Philippine leg at BCU Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, warmly welcomed distinguished guests: Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Wilfredo Alfsen of WM base team representative from Chile, and Karina Lagdameo Santillan, Editor of Pressenza, sharing moments of joy and camaraderie. Photo credit: Angelo Salamat

Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG No. 17: Partnership for the Goals, the program raises awareness of critical social issues such as poverty, climate change, nuclear disarmament, and human rights abuses. It also fosters a deeper understanding of how nonviolence and peace can serve as transformative forces in today’s world by framing these issues within the broader context of social justice movements.

The BCU Chamber Choir, conducted by Sir Jomard Calamba. Photo credit: Michael Rodriguez.

The Baguio Central University Chamber Choir captivated the audience by opening the event with the Pambansang Awit, BCU Hymn, a moving prayer “Dakila Katapatan,” followed by a powerful rendition of the peace anthem, “Heal the World.” Their heartfelt performance set the tone for the occasion, embodying the spirit of unity and hope. Photo credit: Angelo Salamat.

The event opened with a solemn chorale prayer led by the BCU Chamber Choir, conducted by Sir Jomard Calamba, who beautifully rendered the songs. Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera extended a heartfelt welcome to participants from diverse backgrounds in her remarks. The significance of the gathering was framed as a beacon of hope in a world often overshadowed by conflict and division. A powerful peace message, delivered with passion and conviction by City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, resonated deeply with the audience. He painted a vivid picture of a world free from violence and injustice, calling on everyone to become ambassadors of peace and to spread the message of nonviolence far and wide.

Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, BCU President, delivered a message with a smile: “I encourage you all to take a moment during our program to appreciate these powerful artistic messages, which are the products of the poster-making contest, KaPEACEtahan, by our basic education and college learners. Each poster signifies the meaning of peace; they are the voices of our youth, calling for a better and more harmonious world. Photo credit: Michael Rodriguez.

Ms. Sheenah Pearl Pangda, the head of the Student Affairs Office and one of the lead organizers of the World March Philippine Leg at BCU, introduces the resource speakers. Photo credit: Michael Rodriguez

Hon. Benjamin B. Magalong inspires us to champion peace by celebrating our diversity, safeguarding our planet, and being the change—because a brighter world starts with us!

Hon. Benjamin B. Magalong, City Mayor of Baguio City shared his heartfelt message for peace, stating: “Peace is the assurance that every voice—regardless of age, gender, or background—is heard and valued. It is the creation of a world where differences are celebrated, not feared. It is also about advocating for environmental sustainability, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and resources of our planet.”

He further reminded the audience that “the attainment of peace does not come easily. Our generation is uniquely equipped to champion peace. We are more connected than ever before; thanks to technology, we can learn from one another, share experiences, and unite for common causes. We have the energy, passion, and innovative spirit to drive change. But peace isn’t something that happens overnight—it requires patience, understanding, and the willingness to listen. It demands that we challenge the status quo, question injustice, and stand up for what is right. Peace asks us to be the change we wish to see in the world.”

With elegance and flair, the Fungakan Dance Troupe grooves for peace, showcasing their cultural creativity and solidarity under the expert guidance of Coach Lea Angelica R. Alhambra—dancing their way to a brighter future! Credit: Michael Rodriguez.

The Baguio Central University Fungakan Cultural Dance Troupe showcased their talent at the joyous event, demonstrating that dance is a powerful medium for sharing the message of peace. A full video of their performance is available at the following link:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1As0rNNiOInsINQS1Q6o24-i-F-Anj_hK/view

United in harmony, BCU participants create a vibrant human peace sign at the 3rd World March Philippine Leg at BCU—proof that together, we think, speak and act for PEACE!

Peace, Force, and Joy! Wilfredo Alfsen from Chile, a representative of the World March base team, proudly displays the humanist ‘World Without Wars and Violence’ sign with three fingers, embodying the spirit of harmony and solidarity!

The movement’s goal is to educate, uplift, and inspire individuals to embrace the principles of the March for Peace and Non-Violence, encouraging them to envision their role in fostering a more equitable and peaceful society—a legacy of hope. The 3rd World March for Peace and Non-Violence was not just a one-time event; it marked a significant milestone in the ongoing journey toward a more peaceful world. The event highlighted the power of collective action and the enduring human spirit’s capacity for compassion and unity. As participants dispersed, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose, motivated to advocate for peace first within themselves, then extending to their families, barangays, organizations, communities, and the world at large. The legacy of the march will endure, serving as a testament to the unwavering belief that a world free from violence is not merely a dream but an achievable reality. This is just the first installment of our coverage of the Philippine leg at BCU.

Stay tuned for the second installment of articles and even more exciting updates!

Reference:

World Without Wars and Violence. (2024). World March for Peace and Nonviolence. https://theworldmarch.org/en/join/

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