University Peace Champion - MSU GenSan

29/03/2026

Women in Action: Beyond the Stall, A Story of Strength and Survival

In the quiet corners of the campus, where students pass by in a rush between classes, stories of resilience often go unnoticed. For Rhea Manriquez, a campus vendor, life is not defined by titles or recognition, but by the everyday courage to show up, work hard, and provide. Being a woman, for her, is not merely an identity—it is a responsibility shaped by perseverance, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to her family. Behind her small stall is a story of strength, one built not on grand moments, but on the consistency of effort and the dignity of honest work.

Rhea’s journey reflects the reality of many women who navigate life through quiet determination. Each day begins early as she prepares goods to sell, sustaining her livelihood while meeting the needs of students. The challenges she faces—rising costs, unpredictable sales, and the demands of vending—are met with resolve. Yet beyond survival, her presence becomes more than transactional; she offers warmth, kindness, and a sense of comfort, becoming a familiar figure in the midst of busy campus life.

In her own way, she fosters a small community built on trust and everyday connection. Through these simple exchanges, her impact quietly unfolds. Rhea Manriquez reminds us that women in action are not only those in the spotlight, but also those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Her story reflects resilience as a continuous process—of rising each day, facing challenges, and choosing to keep going.

In her journey, we are reminded that strength often lives in the ordinary. And through her quiet perseverance, Rhea continues to shape a narrative of dignity, hard work, and hope—one that deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

28/03/2026

Women in Action: Embracing Diversity, Cultivating Peace

In communities shaped by many cultures and histories, women often carry roles that extend beyond tradition—they become anchors of unity. For one young indigenous student leader, being a woman is both an identity and a calling. She views herself as a connector among people, especially in environments where cultural differences can either create barriers or build stronger bonds. Guided by compassion, patience, and quiet strength, she chooses to be an advocate for peace—beginning not with loud proclamations, but with the simple, intentional act of listening.

Her journey is deeply grounded in her experiences within a multicultural organization, where members come from various indigenous backgrounds. In such an environment, she learned that true leadership requires respect for traditions and openness to different perspectives. Misunderstandings are inevitable, but she believes they can be resolved through calm dialogue and mutual respect. For her, peace is not distant or abstract—it is built through everyday actions of empathy and understanding. By creating spaces where people feel heard and valued, she helps foster harmony within her community.

As Asherrah looks to the future, she envisions women playing a crucial role in nurturing a culture of peace, especially among the youth. She believes that through their influence in the home, in schools, and in community spaces, women can model values like empathy, respect, and cooperation. By guiding the next generation to choose understanding over conflict, women can spark meaningful and lasting change. Peace, she emphasizes, can begin within families, grow in classrooms, and expand to the broader society.

Her story reminds us that being a “woman in action” is not always defined by public recognition or grand gestures. Often, it is found in quiet efforts—in listening, in understanding, and in consistently choosing peace even when it is challenging.

28/03/2026

27/03/2026

Women in Action: Beyond the Crown, A Voice for Peace

In a world often shaped by noise and division, some voices rise not through volume, but through empathy. For Mika Hamajo, a third-year political science student and Miss MSU 2025, being a woman is not just an identity—it is a calling to create spaces where understanding can thrive. She believes that women stand at the heart of community-building, carrying a quiet strength rooted in listening, compassion, and connection. It is through these qualities that she finds her purpose: to bridge differences, encourage dialogue, and nurture solidarity among people. For Mika, peace is not an abstract idea—it begins in the simple, intentional act of making others feel heard and valued.

But her commitment to peace is not without roots in lived experience. Growing up, Mika witnessed violence against women and children—moments that would leave lasting imprints on how she understands conflict. These experiences did not harden her; instead, they deepened her resolve. She came to realize that violence only breeds more pain, never true resolution. From this, she learned the importance of responding to conflict not with anger, but with patience, clarity, and firmness grounded in respect. Her approach reflects a quiet courage—the kind that seeks not to overpower, but to transform. For Mika, choosing peaceful solutions, even when difficult, is an act of strength that creates meaningful and lasting impact.

Today, Mika embodies what it truly means to be a woman in action. She understands that building a culture of peace does not always require grand gestures—it lives in everyday choices: in how we respond to conflict, in how we treat others, and in how we stand up for what is right. She believes that when women support one another, speak out against violence, and promote understanding in their communities, change begins to take root.

In her journey, Mika Hamajo reminds us that peace is not built overnight—it grows, quietly and steadily, through the choices we make each day. And in those choices, she continues to shape a future grounded in dignity, compassion, and hope.

26/03/2026

In celebration of National Women’s Month, the University Peace Champions, in partnership with the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM), proudly launch “Women in Action,” a special feature series that highlights the inspiring stories, leadership, and contributions of women in peacebuilding, community development, and social transformation. This initiative aims to amplify the voices of women who continue to make meaningful impacts in their communities, serving as catalysts for change and champions of peace.

Continue to tune in on our page as we feature remarkable women whose dedication, resilience, and leadership embody the true spirit of empowerment. Together, let us celebrate and honor the vital role of women in shaping inclusive, just, and peaceful societies—because every woman in action is a powerful force for peace.

21/03/2026

Today we celebrate not just your life, but your presence in the University Peace Champions family.

You inspire us to live out our mission of peace through your service, compassion, and genuine care for others.
Thank you for walking this journey with us and making our community stronger. May your day be filled with joy, and may you continue to inspire peace in all that you do. We're grateful for you!

05/03/2026

ATTENTION | The Mindanao State University – General Santos is planning to offer a Diploma in Women, Peace, and Security, a program that aims to develop leaders and practitioners who are passionate about gender equality, peacebuilding, and inclusive governance, especially in the Mindanao context.

We’re inviting students, teachers, government employees, NGO workers, community and religious leaders, and anyone interested in peace and gender advocacy to answer a short survey. Your feedback will help us design a program that truly responds to the needs of our communities.

Rest assured, all responses will be kept confidential and handled in accordance with the Data Privacy Act.

🔗 Survey Link: https://forms.gle/j8EYHJDb3RATuPh89

Help us shape a program that empowers women and strengthens peace in Mindanao. 💜

19/02/2026

The University Peace Champions warmly greet our Muslim brothers and sisters as we enter the Holy Month of Ramadhan 2026. May this sacred time illuminate your hearts with faith, strengthen our bonds of unity, and inspire lasting peace within our community.

Ramadhan Mubarak!

13/02/2026

𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗬 𝗕𝗜𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗗𝗔𝗬, KUMANDER! 🎉

Maam Ludivena, the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao happily celebrates your special day with great joy, admiration, and respect. As the Peace Action Coordinator in our institution, your intelligence radiates brightly, motivating students and colleagues alike. Your dedication to academic excellence and innovative teaching sets a great impact and inspiration for all of us.

Your passion for IPDM and your brilliant perspectives enrich every discussion and lecture, making complex concepts accessible and engaging. Your joyful energy combined with great intelligence continues to uplift the institution and fosters a warm and bright environment. We are truly fortunate to have you as part of our institution.

On your birthday, we wish you continued success, good health, and boundless joy. May your journey as a Peace Action Coordinator flourish even more, and may you achieve all the goals you aspire to. Happy birthday, Maam Ludivena! The institution looks forward to more years of flourishing and growth together.