February 14, 2011 – The Civilian Protection Component – Mindanao Peoples Caucus (CPC-MPC) of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) conducted its first Orientation Seminar on February 10 – 13, 2011, at Mergrande Ocean Resort, Dumoy, Davao City. The three-day activity was participated by 30 women contingent coming from different tribes and places in Mindanao.
The seminar aimed for participants to have a common understanding on the Operational Guidelines, Humanitarian Protection framework, Tasks, Function and Role of Civilian Protection Component in relation for the overall peace process; to have working knowledge of basic ceasefire mechanism and United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 1325 and 1820; to have deeper understanding and awareness on gender sensitivity, feminist theory and concepts; and to develop teamwork and cooperation among its member.
The event enabled the participants to establish camaraderie and teamwork among themselves through sharing of experiences and team building activities. It also became an opportunity for them to define their roles as women contingent to the IMT.
Among the speakers who share their knowledge and expertise are Atty. Mary Ann Arnado, Secretary General of the MPC, Analiza Ugay of Balay Rehabilitation Center, Mr. Rasid Ladiasan, head secretariat of MILF CCCH, writer and feminist Sheilfa Alojamiento, Janice Pinky Aragon of the Integrated Gender and Development Office of the City Government of Davao, and Danilo Caspe, Program Director of MPC.
The seminar ended with a planning activity which will serve as guide for the CPC-MPC women contingent for the next twelve months.