WFWP NCR Chapter Collaborates with TUP-CLA for Digital Bridges for Peace Symposium

Written by: Ms. Rhodora Enriquez

On September 28, 2024, the “Digital Bridges for Peace: A Symposium on Global Peace and Reconciliation” was held at the IRTC Conference Hall at the Technological University of the Philippines-Manila. The event brought together participants from local government, high-level government offices, university representatives, and youth organizations to explore future collaborations. A key highlight of the symposium was the launch of the 21-Day Advocacy Campaign, which will use social media to promote a call for the reunification of North and South Korea.

The event began with a warm welcome from TUP-CLA Dean Dr. Michael Bhobet B. Baluyot, who acknowledged the importance of organizations like the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) in bridging different sectors to foster peace. Prof. Juvy V. Delmonte, WFWP-NCR President and TUP Extension Services OIC-Director, delivered a statement of purpose that set the tone for the day. She emphasized the symposium's theme: leveraging advocacy and technology to bridge divides, encourage understanding, and foster peaceful coexistence.

The first lecture was presented by Mrs. Anne Bellavance, WFWP Australia President and WFWPI UN Office Regional Representative for Oceania and Southeast Asia. Through an interactive activity, Mrs. Bellavance unpacked the topic of visionary leadership, underscoring how true leadership involves the courage to shape the future. She emphasized that “great leaders are masters who rewrite futures and transform how situations occur.”

Following this, Ms. Sua Han, Director at the Gangdong-gu Council in Seoul and the Democratic and Peaceful Unification Advisory Council, delivered a lecture titled “The Global Significance of Korean Unification: Advancing Peace and Prosperity on a Global Scale.” Ms. Han provided insights into the global importance of Korean reunification for fostering peace and prosperity.

Next, Ms. Patricia Nicole G. Uy, Head Executive Assistant to the DICT Secretary, presented on “Youth as Catalysts for Peace: Empowering the Next Generation to Foster Harmony in the Digital Age.” She highlighted the role of young people as essential drivers of peacebuilding in today’s interconnected world.

ICT Industry Development Bureau Officer-in-Charge Ms. Christine Miles A. Laberinto-Miranda then discussed the transformative role of digital platforms in her lecture, “Connecting Communities: Leveraging Digital Platforms for Global Peace and Harmony.” She emphasized the potential of digital tools to foster dialogue and build bridges across communities.

The final lecture was led by Dr. Florida C. Labuguen, Executive Director of the Philippine Society of NSTP Educators and Implementers. Her presentation, “Promoting Peace and Strengthening Communities through Collaborative Efforts,” focused on enhancing social cohesion and community collaboration as essential components of peace.

Between sessions, singer-songwriter and YouTube personality Ms. Woo Ahan performed, providing a moment of relaxation and inspiration for attendees.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Bernadette L. Alavazo, WFWP NCR VP for External Affairs and TUP Sports and Cultural Affairs Director. She reflected on the symposium’s insights and underscored the potential of digital platforms as powerful tools for peace.

The symposium was organized by the WFWPP-NCR Chapter, with support from WFWPI, and was made possible through partnerships with TUP’s College of Liberal Arts, CIGTV, Coffai, and Digitribe Innovations Philippines, which provided Zoom streaming and refreshments. The day ended with the official launch of WFWP-NCR’s 21-Day Peace Advocacy Campaign, which promises to be an inspiring continuation of the organization’s work on both local and international scales.