The 11th Anniversary of the January 24 HWPL Peace Day in the Philippines: Youth Marching Towards Peace

 

 

On January 24, the 11th Anniversary of the January 24 HWPL Peace Day and Peace Walk was grandly held at Aguinaldo Shrine and Freedom Park in Kawit, Cavite, Philippines. The HWPL Philippines Branch and the Department of Education in the Cavite-Kawit Sub-office jointly organized this event. Approximately 8,000 people participated in this meaningful occasion, including government officials, educators, elementary and secondary school students, media representatives, and local citizens.

 

 

Delivery of the “Peace Handprint Flag”: Symbolizing the Youth’s Commitment to Peace

This event was part of HWPL’s campaign to support the DPCW (Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War) for a world without war, with a particular focus on encouraging youth to take the lead in realizing peace. As part of the ceremony, students wrote a total of 11,565 letters addressed to the President of the Philippines, urging peace efforts. Additionally, they presented a special performance by delivering the “Peace Handprint Flag”—a representation of the Philippine flag created using their thumbprints, symbolizing their personal commitment to peace.

 

 

Reaffirming the Meaning of Peace at a Historic Philippine Landmark

The Aguinaldo Shrine, where the event took place, is a historically significant site in the Philippines, symbolizing the country’s independence movement. Many education officials attending the event emphasized that just as Filipino heroes fought for independence in the past, today’s generation must now come together for peace.
Elpidia B. Bergado, Head of Curriculum Implementation at the Cavite Department of Education, expressed:

“The Peace Walk was not just an event but a platform for youth to actively support and act upon the DPCW. I hope Cavite Province will become a leader in peace education, setting an example for expanding peace education throughout the Philippines.”

 

 

During the event, the “Peace Club” Inauguration Ceremony was also held, during which 13 schools in Cavite Province launched their Peace Clubs. Students took an oath of commitment, pledging to actively contribute to both their local communities and global peace efforts.

 

 

The HWPL Philippines Branch plans to expand peace education across the country and strengthen global cooperation for international law legislation. It aims to introduce peace education and establish Peace Clubs in 333 schools across Cavite Province, ensuring that youth take a leading role in spreading a culture of peace.

We expect to continue our collaboration with the HWPL Philippines Branch and the Philippine Department of Education for sustainable peace initiatives that will flourish in the coming years.