Together in advancing the peace education initiatives in the Philippines, the Holy Cross of Davao College and the Office of Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity – Local Conflict Transformation Mindanao (OPAPRU – LCTM), finalized its strategic partnership for the implementation of the Transformation Program for Former Rebels, their families, and communities, last February 14, 2024, at the HCDC President’s Boardroom.
OPAPRU, known for heralding the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Process through fostering reconciliation and unity among the Filipino people, joined forces with HCDC to create robust programs that will empower individuals and communities for a transformative program.
HCDC President Br. Noelvic H. Deloria, S.C., underscored the significance of the partnership as a Catholic institution, as peace is “part of our core values in HCDC” during his opening remarks.
“Peace is a very important part for us, especially for us, here in Holy Cross of Davao College. Peace is really a core value for us, since how can we be a fully vibrant community if there is no peace? How can we become a community of Christ-centered evangelizers without peace? So we’re very grateful that we have the OPAPRU here in Mindanao and we are involved in this historic partnership,” he remarked.
Blending OPAPRU’s expertise in conflict resolution with HCDC’s dedication to excellence in peace communication studies, the collaboration also intends to structure ways for effective communication in peacebuilding.
Meanwhile, Atty. Elisa Evangelista-Lapina, Director of OPAPRU, expressed her enthusiasm about the transformative possibilities that this collaboration will bring.
“This will be the first na meron ng partnership with an academic institution like the Holy Cross of Davao College that is focusing on transformation program. So HCDC partnered with the OPAPRU in implementing transformation program. Once again, on behalf of Secretary Carlito Galvez, we are so happy to have this partnership with the HCDC,” Atty. Lapina highlighted.
This partnership is a continued commitment of HCDC towards trailblazing and fostering a culture of peace. The institution, through the Center for Social Communications and Alumni Affairs (CSCAA), is set establish the Institute of Peace Communication Studies, which is poised to significantly equip individuals and communities with ways to address conflicts and contribute to building more harmonious and vibrant communities.
