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What’s relevant in 1914, remains relevant today.
Back in 1914 when Rotary was a young organization with limited presence in only a few countries, Rotarians from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, proposed before the 1914 Rotary Convention that the International Association of Rotary Clubs (now Rotary International) “lend its influence to the maintenance of peace among the nations of the world.” Delegates at the convention, which took place just weeks before war broke out in Europe, agreed.
110 years later, Rotary and its members continue to promote peace and work towards addressing the underlying causes of conflict in communities around the world.
Rotarian Rachel Polestico, our project chair, led a significant initiative to address the pressing issue of insurgency and promote peace in Northern Mindanao through a pivotal Peace Forum. The event, organized in collaboration with the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, the Rotaract Club of CDO East Urban, and the Development Bank of the Philippines, brought together influential voices to deliberate on the current state of insurgency and explore strategies to uphold peace in the region.
The forum, held on February 26, 2024, featured LTC Joselito B. Ante Jr., Deputy G7 Civil Military Operations of 4ID, who delivered an insightful presentation enriched with factual analysis and statistical data. The focus of his discourse encompassed the complex landscape of insurgency in Northern Mindanao and outlined proactive measures to sustain a peaceful environment. Notably, the audience comprised selected 4th-year law students of Xavier University, alongside members from prominent Rotarian clubs including the Rotary Club of Uptown CDO, Rotary Club of East CDO, and Rotary Club of Kalayaan.
In a spirited exchange following the presentation, attendees engaged in a lively open forum, fostering an environment conducive to constructive dialogue and the exchange of diverse perspectives. This participatory approach underscored the commitment of all stakeholders to collectively contribute towards fostering enduring peace in the region.
Echoing the spirit of unity and collaboration, this momentous event not only shed light on the contemporary challenges posed by insurgency but also instilled a sense of collective responsibility to champion peace within the community. The enduring legacy of Rotary’s dedication to peace, which traces back to a historic proposition in 1914, continues to resonate today as Rotarians strive to address the underlying causes of conflicts across diverse communities worldwide.
As we commemorate this significant milestone in the pursuit of peace, it becomes evident that the vision crafted over a century ago remains as relevant and imperative today as it was in 1914. The commitment to promoting peace and advancing sustainable solutions to mitigate conflict stands as a testament to the unwavering ethos of Rotary and its members.
The resounding success of the Peace Forum serves as a beacon of hope, embodying the resilience and determination of the community to overcome challenges and pave the way for a harmonious and prosperous future in Northern Mindanao.
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