THE military in Western Mindanao conducted over the weekend a two-day educational tour for children of former Muslim rebels.
The event, dubbed “Lakbay Aral Para sa Kapayapaan 2024” was spearheaded by the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) in partnership with the Civil Military Operations Unit-Western Mindanao (CMOU-WM).
NFWM spokesman Lt. Chester Cabaltera said children of rebel returnees and selected youth from Tawi-Tawi were taken on the tour to give them new perspectives on peace and opportunities.
The exercise began with a symposium on the role of education in fostering peace and prosperity.
In his remarks, Col. Jonathan Gabor, NFWM vice chief for marine operations, narrated about a child rescued from violence through education and community support.
The kids were also given school supplies, grocery packs, and essential items, plus an on-deck tour of the Navy ship BRP Laurence Narag.
On the second day, the children explored Zamboanga City, visiting ZC E&L Canning Corporation, Jollibee, and Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology. They were also taken to the Rainbow Masjid and Abong-Abong Mosque, and enjoyed a special dinner with stakeholders, all with a view to enhancing their understanding of culture, peace, and community.
Cabaltera said the initiative reflected NFWM’s dedication to peace-building by exploring education to open doors for a brighter future for the youth.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Children of former rebels taken on an educational tour.”
