They call it by many names: “The Southern Frontier”, “The food basket”, “the second largest

island”

But Above all else, our home, our island, is also named the Land of Promise.

Three days ago, we left our homes, traveled across mountains and highways to converge in this
city - carrying our own stories of service, hoping to make a promise - real.

This is a promise that has evaded us for centuries, stalled by conflict, injustice and poverty. But,
we’ve seen, in the past days, that this promise is still very much alive in the hope and commitment
of the faces beside you.

Our dear Angat Buhay Youth, your way of life is a testament that you can transform ideas into
social good that make the promise of peace, justice, and prosperity real.

We learned, through the experience of Prim Paypon that like promises, dreams should be
grounded in a deep personal encounter with pain. And use that to fuel a grounded desire to make
a difference.

We learned, through the wise words of Bebot Rodil, that these promises of peace exist in a social
context, with its own complex history and dynamics.

We learned, through Mr. Evans Yonson, that we need to mobilize around that promise of peace
in all mediums of communication and build networks across cultures and perspective.

We learned, through Ms. Mona Pangan, that we need to identity key partners and stakeholders
to co-own and co-create the social good.

We learned, through, Tobit Cruz, that projects should not just be a one shot-deal, it should ensure
sustainability through institutionalization and policy development.

We learned, through Lt. Ron Villorosa, that solidarity with the people in the communities enables
you to see what they see and feel what they feel and with that, foster a communion that will
ground you.

We learned, through MR. Guido Sarreal and Ms. Angie Tan, that our ideas can be amplified and
upscaled through the proper use of our power to communicate. Our stories should be shared in
order to inspire and to magnify.

We learned, through archbishop Ledesma that above all else, we need to listen. Listen not
immediately respond, but to understand, to dialogue. And He made us see that our work should
not be separated from how we lead our personal lives. A commitment to peace work is a
commitment to a way of life.
And We learned through our very supportive mentors that we are not alone. We have in our
presence, a whole community of dedicated leaders willing to support you and guide you even
after this summit has ended. That is the power of bringing us all together here.

Today, we shall say that promises are NOT Meant to be broken but --- fulfilled. With our courage,
and our commitment, with our organizations, advocacy and projects, we dare to say that we shall
make it real for Mindanao and our Philippines.

They call it by many names. Now, let us call it the Land of Fulfilled Promises.

Amen.