BukSU Center for Peace Studies, Indonesia’s UMY Launch International Training of Trainers

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) Center for Peace Studies (CPS), BukSU International Affairs and Linkages Unit (IALU), and Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) conducted an international Training of Trainers (TOT) on Peacebuilding on May 13, 2026, to equip local leaders and educators with conflict-resolution skills.

The training focused on internal peace, indigenous justice, and conflict transformation.

Speakers from Peace Generation Indonesia introduced the “12 Basic Values of Peace,” teaching that effective peacebuilding starts with personal mindset, empathy, and overcoming internal bias.

Atty. Ophelia Pilar E. Rubio-Zamora, Dean of the BukSU College of Law, discussed the harmonization of Philippine law with the customary practices of the Bukidnon Tagoloanen tribe, highlighting the role of cultural wisdom in local harmony.

Dr. Idham Badruzaman of UMY presented the concept of imperfect peace using Indonesia’s reconciliation efforts in Ambon as a model for rebuilding trust in divided communities.

The event gathered a diverse group of participants, including barangay captains, peace educators, and student leaders who are members of the indigenous communities.

The session concluded with a call for stakeholders to view peacebuilding as a continuous, lifelong process of dialogue rather than a one-time achievement. (Eunssj C. Escalona/ Head, Center for Peace Studies)