In November 2023, MPI organized a special training on the Fundamentals of Peacebuilding for the Mahintana Foundation, Inc. (MFI) and its partners. MPI long-term facilitator Maria Ida “Deng” Giguiento led the training on November 8 and 9, 2023, at Malagos Garden Resort in Davao City. The event brought together 25 people from Mahintana Foundation staff and partnering organizations in South Cotabato, Davao Region, and Manila, Philippines.
This training went beyond just learning for those involved. It held deep meaning for community and development workers representing the Tripartite People of the Philippines—Lumad, Muslims, and Christians. Together, under the auspices of the Mahintana Foundation, Inc. (MFI), Kasilak Development Foundation, Inc., OND Hessed Foundation, Inc., Tribal Leaders Development Foundation, Inc., Maguindanaon Development Foundation, Inc., and Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund, they shared common goals, relationships, and conversations.
MFI conveyed to MPI their united vision in pursuit of peace and justice in the land, and the collaborative and passionate cry of community and development workers who wanted to give more, serve better, and act justly in their complex context and in their diverse communities. Their love for their people and willingness to learn, unlearn, and relearn the skills and understanding about the foundations of peacebuilding, moved us to journey with them as it resonates with MPI's mission of a deep commitment to justice and peace; respect for human rights; and dialogue and solidarity among individuals, institutions, and communities of MPI.
