Photo by Tabuk City PIO
CITY OF TABUK, Kalinga (PIA) – -The Department of Education (DepEd) plans to integrate peace education into the Department’s basic education curriculum to imbue upon Filipino children to resolve conflict peacefully without resorting to violence.
In her message on February 13 during Schools Day celebration of the 28th Kalinga Founding Anniversary and 4th Bodong Festival, Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio considers the iKalingas the perfect role models for peace education and eyes Kalinga’s Bodong (peacepact) as integral part of the program.
The VP lauded the iKalingas for their Bodong system that remains recognized and viable alternative peace resolution. The peace pact or Bodong in modern times is a testament that iKalingas have strongly preserved their cultural heritage, she said.
“It is my first time to be here in Kalinga and as a visitor and now an adopted daughter, I am filled with norms at seeing the beauty of Kalinga. Kalinga is fortunate to have a rich and peaceful community, the strength of your foundation is built upon the peaceful co-existence between ethnic groups,” she said.
Foremost among these precious traditions is the Bodong, a native peace system used to forge relationships, resolve conflicts, deliver justice and preserve peace between communities and preventing violence or retaliation.
“Your commitment to hold out strong on the evolution of your heritage, governance and independence is an important asset. A phenomenal example for others who seek to establish democratic community despite ethnic diversity and differences. You all are on a much-treasured land similar in Mindanao,” Carpio said.
In said event, the Vice President was adopted daughter of Kalinga by virtue of Resolution No. 2023-034 passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on February 7, 2023. She was named Lumingay which means “lovable, strong and supportive wife “of a tribal leader. (JDP/PAB-PIA CAR, Kalinga)
