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CMC Student Advances Peace Advocacy and ASEAN Youth Collaboration at SALAAMindanao 2025

KIDAPAWAN CITY, Philippines — Central Mindanao Colleges (CMC) proudly highlights the participation of Cristoper Dinopol Fernando, a second-year Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English student, in the SALAAMindanao and Beyond 2025 Summit held from November 23 to 26 in Davao City and the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS). Fernando represented both CMC and the youth of Mindanao in a multinational gathering of delegates from Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, Cambodia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, strengthening regional cooperation and peace advocacy across Southeast Asia.

The summit, organized by the Southeast Asian Youth for Humanity (SEA Y4H) and the Al Qalam Institute for Islamic Identities and Dialogue in Southeast Asia of Ateneo de Davao University, opened with an interactive session titled “Getting to Know Their Fellow Storytellers.” Delegates shared experiences and reflections that emphasized empathy, cultural understanding, and the collective responsibility of sustaining peace in their respective nations. Despite coming from different backgrounds, participants found unity in their shared aspiration to advance harmony and inclusive development throughout the ASEAN region.

Throughout the first day of the summit, Fernando joined workshops on Transformative Storytelling and Content Creation led by Cerita Kita Fellows from Southeast Asia. These sessions guided participants in crafting narratives that elevate individual stories into shared experiences of resilience and cooperation. Discussions facilitated by CyberPeace Fellows highlighted the importance of responsible online engagement and the vital role youth play in cultivating safe digital spaces. A campus visit to Ateneo de Davao University capped the day, where Fr. Jessel “Jboy” Gonzales, SJ, discussed the institution’s long-standing commitment to interreligious and intercultural dialogue as part of its peace-building mission.

The summit continued with a cultural immersion in IGACOS, where delegates visited the Sama Laminusa Community renowned for its traditional mat weaving. Fernando witnessed the dedication of the women weavers in preserving their cultural heritage and sustaining their community livelihood. Later, delegates attended a multisectoral dialogue at Samal Island City College (SICC) titled “Terrorism to Tourism: The IGACOS Experience,” which brought together local government officials, academic representatives, community elders, indigenous leaders, and youth advocates. The engagement offered a comprehensive look into local peace efforts, public safety, and socioeconomic development. Delegates were warmly received by the SICC Samal Sinag Cultural Dance Troupe, whose performances showcased the cultural richness of the island.

The SALAAMindanao and Beyond 2025 Summit aligns strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting peace, fostering global citizenship, strengthening regional cooperation, and ensuring inclusive participation of youth in peace and development initiatives. Through dialogue, cultural immersion, and collaborative learning, the summit deepened the delegates’ understanding of how regional partnerships can advance long-term peace in Southeast Asia.

CMC commends Fernando for his commitment to peace advocacy and international collaboration. As President of PRISM (Passionate and Responsive Individuals for Strategic Internationalization and Sustainable Development in Mindanao), he is expected to bring home meaningful insights and strengthened networks that will support CMC’s ongoing initiatives in peace education, global engagement, and sustainable development. His participation demonstrates the institution’s dedication to nurturing globally competent and socially responsible youth leaders.

CMC looks forward to the continued impact of Fernando’s contributions as he applies the knowledge and experiences gained from this ASEAN-wide summit to future programs and student-led activities within the college and the larger community.

Publishers: CMC Cial Activities