A Journey for Peace: The story of the Cavite State University Peace Interns

A journey begins

It is that time of year again;  graduating students will seek opportunities to refine and develop their skills in preparation for the challenges of life that lie ahead. Internships or On-the-Job Training is a bridge that connects the gap between academia and industry. It plays a significant role in shaping a student’s professional skill, preparing them for the future. Internships can serve as a stepping stone toward one’s goals or as a new home to begin their journey.

Before discovering Teach Peace Build Peace Movement, the student-interns from Cavite State University were already familiar with the importance of promoting peace. As part of their curriculum in the BS International Studies program, they learned about the significance of unity in fostering peace within societies, nations, and among citizens, whether at the national or international level. It is always emphasized that peace is a crucial aspect of global improvement; Thus, an individual’s understanding of the concept of “peace” becomes limited.

Each peace intern has their own first impression or thoughts about peace. There are different perspectives, reflections, and learnings that they encounter through their journey with TPBPM. There are Faith, Understanding and Empowerment, Nurturing Peaceful Habits, Empathy, and Restoring Oneself.

Peace Interns’ Journey

Their internship journey with TPBPM has opened up many realizations, lessons, and opportunities related to peace, peace education, and integrating peace into their daily lives. Through their research, peace formation courses, and tasks, they have gained valuable insights that they will surely never forget.

After a nearly four-month internship journey with TPBPM, the peace interns not only acquired technical skills such as in-depth research, but also administrative tasks such as program planning and organizing data and information gathered from surveys and interviews. They also developed mental and social skills, such as critical thinking, active listening, observation, adaptability, and peaceful habits, under the guidance of their Ates and Kuyas. The interns couldn’t imagine what would happen after their internship, but with the guidance and lessons they’ve acquired, they are now confident with their abilities in facing the next chapter of their life, head-on, and with peace in their hearts. 

The interns would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to their Ates and Kuyas. Their kindness, understanding, and support leave a big impact on their lives. The positive and peaceful vibes they received will stay with them forever.

“Thank you Teach Peace Build Peace Movement for making our internship feel like family.”

– Peace Interns

Read Ate Alpha’s Story:

“Ate Alpha’s Journey of Faith, Understanding and Empowerment

Read Ate Ezyrelle’s Story :

Nurturing Peaceful Habits: Ate Ezyrelle’s Journey of Growth and Transformation

Read Ate Judy-Ann’s Story: 

A Journey of Empathy and Empowerment: Ate Judy-Ann’s Quest to Make a Difference

Read Kuya Justine’s Story :

Restoring Oneself: Cultivating Peace Education for a Better Community

Nurturing Peaceful Habits: Ate Ezyrelle’s Journey of Growth and Transformation

Experiencing harmony, the absence of war, and the freedom to live without fear has always been the essence of peace for Ate Ezyrelle Bariring. However, her perception of peace expanded and deepened as she embarked on her transformative journey with TPBPM (The Peace Building and Peace Making) program. She discovered peace is not merely a concept but a profound and multifaceted state of being. For Ate Ezyrelle, peace encompasses the harmonious coexistence of people, both internally and within their communities, families, and friendships.

Reflecting on her experience, Ate Ezyrelle shared that TPBPM profoundly impacted her personal and professional growth. Through comprehensive assessments and desk research on organizations and local government units (LGUs) in BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), she honed her skills in research analysis, written communication, and computer proficiency. Additionally, she developed invaluable qualities such as adaptability and the ability to work independently. TPBPM also played a crucial role in boosting her confidence, empowering her to face new challenges with resilience.

While engaging in TPBPM, Ate Ezyrelle became acutely aware of our nation’s pressing need for peace education. She was disheartened to discover that many schools in Mindanao lacked awareness and appreciation for the hardships faced during times of armed conflict. Both teachers and students tirelessly strive for a peaceful and victorious life, yet peace education remains underestimated. Looking back, she recognizes that peace education is not a cliché, but an essential component of every learner’s journey, carrying equal importance to traditional school subjects.

“Just as we teach children mathematics, we should also teach them the ‘hows’ of peace,” Ate Ezyrelle emphasized passionately. “We must equip them with the tools to be kind, respect others, prevent conflicts, and peacefully resolve them. Through this initiative, we nurture their growth and help them become their best version.”

Inspired by her transformative experience, Ate Ezyrelle has embraced and integrated the peaceful habits she acquired into her daily life. She firmly believes that these habits will continue to guide her as she pursues a career aligned with the principles and objectives of TPBPM.

“Taking care of myself through meditation is a practice I am deeply grateful for,” she shared earnestly. This form of self-care contributes to my well-being and the collective peace we all aspire to achieve in society.”

Ate Ezyrelle’s journey with TPBPM has allowed her to transcend the limitations of a narrow understanding of peace. It has empowered her to view peace as a holistic endeavor, encompassing interpersonal relationships, self-care, and promoting peace education. Her dedication to nurturing peaceful habits inspires others, highlighting the transformative power of embracing peace within ourselves and our communities. Through her continued efforts, Ate Ezyrelle is paving the way for a brighter, more harmonious future.

Read here:

A Journey for Peace: The story of the Cavite State University Peace Interns

Read Ate Alpha’s Story:

“Ate Alpha’s Journey of Faith, Understanding and Empowerment

Read Ate Judy-Ann’s Story: 

A Journey of Empathy and Empowerment: Ate Judy-Ann’s Quest to Make a Difference

Read Kuya Justine’s Story :

Restoring Oneself: Cultivating Peace Education for a Better Community

A Journey of Empathy and Empowerment: Ate Judy-Ann’s Quest to Make a Difference

In the bustling city of Metro Manila, where daily routines often drown out the cries of distant struggles, one student’s internship experience at the Teach Peace Build Peace Movement proved to be a transformative journey of awareness and compassion. Ate Judy-Ann Bislig, driven by her unwavering desire to contribute positively to society, found herself immersed in the stories of the people of Maguindanao. These encounters opened her eyes to the pressing needs and injustices marginalized communities face, igniting a fire within her to make a tangible difference in their lives.

Awakening the Spirit of Service

Before her internship, Ate Judy-Ann was aware of the conflicts and hardships within the country. However, her exposure to the narratives of the people in Maguindanao deepened her understanding and reinforced the urgency of the situation. Witnessing individuals’ immense challenges in these communities, Ate Judy-Ann’s motivation to actively contribute to their welfare soared. She was inspired by the dedicated Ates at TPBPM, who served as role models in their unwavering commitment to helping others.

A Journey of Learning

Stepping into TPBPM as an intern, Ate Judy-Ann possessed only a limited understanding of the true nature of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Yet, as she immersed herself in the organization’s activities, her knowledge deepened, and she realized the transformative power of peace education. She discovered that being part of an NGO meant assisting individuals and striving for the overall betterment of the community. Ate Judy-Ann recognized that when individuals’ perspectives shift towards peace and understanding, it can lead to positive and sustainable development within their entire community.

The Ripple Effect of Empathy

Ate Judy-Ann’s internship at TPBPM transformed her perspective and rippled outward, positively impacting those around her. Her intensified motivation and passion for community development inspired her peers as they witnessed the genuine empathy she displayed in her actions. By leading by example, Ate Judy-Ann sought to instill a sense of compassion and social responsibility within her network, hoping to create a collective force for change and inspire others through little acts of kindness.

Read here:

A Journey for Peace: The story of the Cavite State University Peace Interns

Read Ate Alpha’s Story:

“Ate Alpha’s Journey of Faith, Understanding and Empowerment

Read Ate Ezyrelle’s Story :

Nurturing Peaceful Habits: Ate Ezyrelle’s Journey of Growth and Transformation

Read Kuya Justine’s Story :

Restoring Oneself: Cultivating Peace Education for a Better Community

Ate Alpha’s Journey of Faith, Understanding and Empowerment

Ate Alpha Larong has discovered that true harmony can only exist when faith is embraced in a world where peace is often associated with religion. Throughout her internship journey with Teach Peace Build Peace Movement (TPBPM), Ate Alpha’s misconceptions about the Muslim community, peace, peace education, diverse cultures, and current societal events were shattered, transforming her perspective and deepening her understanding. 

Before her time with TPBPM, Ate Alpha believed in the biased portrayals of Muslims as bad guys that the media had exposed to her. However, her experience with the organization and their comprehensive assessments opened her eyes to the truth: Muslims are not the villains they are often depicted as. Instead, they, too, are victims of violence, especially women and children. Like Christianity, Ate Alpha learned Islam advocates for love, goodness, and non-violence. Unfortunately, a few misinterpretations and actions have tarnished the image of Islam, perpetuating prejudice and misunderstanding.

Through her involvement with TPBPM, Ate Alpha gained a deeper appreciation for the value of seeking out the untold stories of marginalized communities. She recognized that developing critical thinking, compassion, and analytical skills were essential to building connections and relationships that transcend cultural and religious differences. With this newfound understanding, Ate Alpha was motivated to dispel misconceptions and promote inner peace within herself and others, becoming a true ambassador of harmony and understanding.

During her time with TPBPM, Ate Alpha gained valuable skills in organizing data while preparing for the Cyberpeace Heroes Fellowship Camp. This newfound expertise proved invaluable in her work with a youth organization, allowing her to make a meaningful contribution and effect positive change. TPBPM helped Ate Alpha understand the critical importance of integrating peace into all aspects of society, particularly in areas affected by armed conflict. The program fueled her personal growth and transformation, encouraging deep introspection and reflection. Ate Alpha emerged as a compassionate and enlightened individual, taking on leadership roles within her youth organization.

The TPBPM peace courses and team huddles not only broadened Ate Alpha’s understanding but also taught her the importance of self-care and managing mental health. A particular motto she learned in one of the courses has remained etched in her memory:

“Bato-bato sa langit, ang matamaan, MAG-REFLECT.” 

Ate Alpha’s journey has been filled with faith, understanding, and empowerment. With the help of TPBPM, she uncovered the true meaning of peace, broke down her prejudices, and appreciated the beautiful array of humanity around her. Her growth and positive impact on society inspire anyone looking to embark on their transformative journey, promoting harmony, peace, and understanding for a brighter future.

Read here:

A Journey for Peace: The story of the Cavite State University Peace Interns

Read Ate Ezyrelle’s Story :

Nurturing Peaceful Habits: Ate Ezyrelle’s Journey of Growth and Transformation

Read Ate Judy-Ann’s Story: 

A Journey of Empathy and Empowerment: Ate Judy-Ann’s Quest to Make a Difference

Read Kuya Justine’s Story :

Restoring Oneself: Cultivating Peace Education for a Better Community

Restoring Oneself: Cultivating Peace Education for a Better Community

From his early years in elementary school, Kuya Justine Dela Cruz has been familiar with the concepts of peace. However, during his internship at TPBPM, he experienced a transformative journey, redefining his understanding of peace and its significance in people’s lives. His time at TPBPM opened his eyes to the pressing need for peace education among various communities. As a dedicated young leader, he serves his Barangay through community service, the Sanguniang Kabataan, and other initiatives. Motivated by a genuine desire to uplift his community, Kuya Justine recognizes the potential for implementing impactful programs, particularly for the younger generation.

Through TPBPM, he gained invaluable insights into peace education, discovering practical activities like “Bata Banderitas” that can be introduced to children. These activities promoting peace education can instill essential values in young minds. Kuya Justine strongly believes that by teaching peace early, a generation of peace heroes can emerge, fostering a harmonious community and establishing a solid foundation for their future.

The opportunity to share the values of peace and other fundamental ideals with children resonates deeply with him. TPBPM empowers individuals to become catalysts for transformative change through this shared commitment to peace education, nurturing a collective spirit of peace, understanding, and cooperation.

He believes that teaching peace at a young age can help cultivate a community of peace heroes, laying a solid foundation for their future. Kuya Justine is dedicated to restoring peace within himself and his community, striving to create a brighter, more harmonious future for all.

Read here:

A Journey for Peace: The story of the Cavite State University Peace Interns

Read Ate Alpha’s Story:

“Ate Alpha’s Journey of Faith, Understanding and Empowerment

Read Ate Ezyrelle’s Story :

Nurturing Peaceful Habits: Ate Ezyrelle’s Journey of Growth and Transformation

Read Ate Judy-Ann’s Story: 

A Journey of Empathy and Empowerment: Ate Judy-Ann’s Quest to Make a Difference

#WOMENFORPEACE: JAI HADJI SAPIIN

Tell us something about yourself

I am Ate Jai and I have devoted my life to teaching across all learner levels informal settings and informal ones. I am currently the Senior Technical Education and Skills Development Specialist of MBTE-TESD Lanao del Sur Provincial Office. I was the Division Peace Education Coordinator of DepEd MBHTE Lanao del Sur I. Despite her work, I love to engage myself in volunteer work and civic engagements. I use my voice to influence positive change in more communities and I believe that women play an important role in supporting a peaceful, sustainable, and progressive society. I hope for people to be more open and understanding of different perspectives.

Tell us about your role in TPBPM 

I joined TPBPM last 2017. From then on, I work as a volunteer peace formator and facilitator in the different peace missions in the Province of Lanao del Sur and in the then ARMM. I also led some of the peace missions in the province as I was tasked as to be the Peace Convenor. I usually handle the peace sessions for parents. I also help in the drafting and writing of our materials as part of our peace education modules.

What are the highlights of your experience with TPBPM?

I usually handle the peace sessions for parents. I get to know more about the sacrifices and struggles of parents for their children. Every moment I am with them is memorable for me. It is guaranteed that I learn from them in any session. One moment that always resonates in my memory is that father I met way back in 2018. In our session on Love Languages, he asked my assistance to help him write a message for his children. His eagerness to let his children know how much he loves him is really inspiring. He said “Phanamanamaran akn a kapakapageskwela nyo an ako nyo di khalagid a karurugunan.” It means “I will do my best to send you to school so that you do not experience the same suffering I am facing.”

What have you learned from TPBPM that you have applied in your life?

TPBPM helped me become a person for others. It made me appreciate life with the peace missions we had and we do. Thus, I need to be more and be better. And for peace to be attained, we should always start in ourselves. We cannot give what we do not have. TPBPM taught me self-love. I can only be at peace with others if I am happy and do not hold a grudge against anyone.

What’s your advice for young women who wants to advocate for peace?

Women from all walks of life should realize that we have a role to play in society. We are the central caretakers of families. Women should have representation in any aspect of life. We need not forget that everyone is affected when women are excluded from peacebuilding. Women are also advocates for peace. We are peacekeepers. We are one of the keys to achieving sustainable peace and development solutions. We are more because we are women.

Peace is love. Peace is not merely the absence of every type of structural violence. It is security for all and is premised on the universal integration of a gender perspectives. Peace promotes social inclusion as there should be equal participation at all levels and in all peace building processes.

JAI HADJI SAPIIN

#WOMENFORPEACE: Sheyna Delos Reyes

Tell us something about yourself

They say that people with Scorpios as their zodiac signs are mostly passionate, confident, and creative. They like stability and routine. However, as a very misunderstood zodiac sign, they also say that Scorpios are secretive, mysterious, and discreet. In general, I think I do possess these traits in both my personal and public life, particularly when it comes to topics and advocacies that I really believed in, I relentlessly pursue them and make an effort to know more and engage with it.

Tell us about your role in TPBPM 

Currently, I am in the Communications Team where I create content for social media posting and other communication channels. But since 2015, I’ve been involved in various volunteer opportunities with TPBPM doing secretariat duties, documentation, and facilitation activities.

What are the highlights of your experience with TPBPM?

In 2017, we organized our first peace fair in Mamasapano Maguindanao. We’ve been going back and forth in this area because of our Peace Education Sessions with the children, parents, and teachers. As for my role, I was just observing and documenting the activities around so I have minimal interaction with the participants, unlike the facilitators and lead formators during the sessions. On our last day in Hadji Salik Elementary School, a student went up to me and gave me a note:

Dear Ate Sheyna,

“Sana po madalas po kayo pupunta dito at madalas din po tayong magkasama at maging Peace Hero po ako. Thank you, Ate Sheyna.”

From Norhamida.

Initially, I was speechless and confused. Why would a student give me this note? And then I realized that perhaps, it’s the collective effort of the TPBPM members that touched the student who wished to be a Peace Hero. It’s that collective “peace vibes and positive energy” being spread out by our TPBPM Kuyas and Ates and being felt in and outside of Norhamida’s school.

Before we fly back to Manila, it made me appreciate all of my co-volunteers hard work, regardless of our roles in the field, and most importantly, it made me realize that this is what building peace together looks like.

What have you learned from TPBPM that you have applied in your life?

It may be as simple as it sounds but can make a huge impact on another person’s life. It’s that saying that I often hear “Peace begins with a smile”.

True enough, it takes practice to make it a habit to start your day with a smile given all the negativity happening around us. I try to apply it as often as possible – whenever I wake up and would think of small events or things, even people, that will make me smile for today. It’s like my armor that at the end of the day, I still feel positive even if I would encounter some mishaps or “bad vibes”.

What’s your advice for young women who wants to advocate for peace?

Surround yourself with like-minded and passionate people who advocate for peace. Being a strong and independent woman is an offshoot of having a strong support system that will lift you up from your lows and will cheer you up for your achievements. These moments of “Kaya mo yan, Ate.”, “Nandito lang kami para sa’yo.”, “Salamat at nandyan ka.”, “Ang galing mo, Ate.” will build your confidence and will inspire you to support other women as you get molded to have a solid-rock foundation.

Peace is you.

You have the power to decide to be at peace with yourself. You have the power to choose peace for yourself. And you have the power to bring peace to those around you. Peace will and should always start with you.

MA. SHEYNA DELOS REYES

#WOMENFORPEACE: Sarah Medilo

Tell us something about yourself

I am an entrepreneur, a Gallup certified Strengths Coach, a mother who loves to volunteer with her family to get more youth to live the value of peace building in their own communities.

Tell us about your role in TPBPM 

I am the National Convener for Volunteers focusing on creating harmony and encouraging collaboration among all the people who become involved in our peace advocacy movement. I am also a Mother for Peace and a strong advocate for our Eco Peace Republic values.

What are the highlights of your experience with TPBPM?

I love moments when I get to spend time with our volunteers, getting to know their stories and being able to share our piece of peace with each other. I am most touched by the strength of character that we are able to inspire when we go into peace missions with our volunteers and my own daughters (who are peace hero ambassadors in the movement). I enjoy our peace conversations at the end of each day where we get to process our experiences and we learn from each other. My favorite moments are reading peace notes from our participants in our many missions. 

What have you learned from TPBPM that you have applied in your life?

One important value I cherish most in TPBPM is the Eco Peace Republic. We are living true to this value by living it. Being more conscious of our impact on the environment. Making mindful choices for all things we consume and making sure those choices are sustainable and promote our co-existence with nature. We now have a home garden where we grow our food and our entire family has turned vegan. But more importantly, day by day we are living life with the intention of being at peace with our environment and respecting all life.

What’s your advice for young women who wants to advocate for peace?

Be true to yourself. Make choices that foster respect and peace. Build small habits for peace and one day those habits will be your mark of peace in this world.

Peace is — something that begins with YOU.

It begins with a choice that you will have to build with intention. And as you live it each day you will feel a sense of inner happiness that will radiate to others and inspire an attitude of respect, love, and harmony — one that starts within and naturally moves outward to create a positive impact on your community, our nation, and even our world.

#WOMENFORPEACE: Janessa Tek-ing

Tell us something about yourself. 

I’m Nessa, a storyteller, and writer at heart. I am passionate about weaving my love for storytelling and technology with advocacy. I use my voice and my words to tell stories that inspire people to act and give back. I have been a TPBPM volunteer since 2013 (when it started!). 

Tell us about your role in TPBPM.

I’m a communications consultant to TPBPM since 2013 and in my role, I help the organization with their communications needs to the best of my ability. I also volunteer in some activities —whether as a mentor or a writer — whenever I can. 

What are the highlights of your experience with TPBPM?

I believe every moment with TPBPM is a story worth remembering in itself. But if I were to choose only one experience, it would be the Artist for Peace Mentoring Workshop which we held in Lanao Del Sur. I love it because I got the opportunity to listen to the stories of kids from Mindanao: their stories of resilience and strength, as well as their dreams and aspirations. It touched me so much because it made me realize (as with all TPBPM activities!) how lucky I am in life and how much more work we need to do. Children in conflict areas have so much potential, they just need to be in a nurturing, peaceful environment and that’s the part we’re helping to build with our advocacy.

What have you learned from TPBPM that you have applied in your life?

I will always remember this: peace starts within us. So, I consciously made it my own personal mission to constantly do the inner work because I cannot share peace if I don’t have it within me. I believe that’s what we’re also trying to share through our advocacy in TPBPM: that for peace to be truly attainable, we all have to get rid of our personal biases towards people, places, and circumstances. 

What’s your advice for young women who wants to advocate for peace?

Start with yourself. Any advocacy starts with a small gesture because if you strive for a much bigger step right away, you might end up not taking any action at all. What do you have that you can share with others? Because that gift was given to you for a reason. I remember my peace advocacy started when I was in college, a time when I missed volunteering so much. I told myself, “You’re good at public speaking and writing. Maybe you can do something with that.” So I offered myself and looked for organizations I can support: first with PeaceTech (as a youth ambassador) then with TPBPM (as a comms consultant and writer). I’ve been advocating for peace since then. But, the work doesn’t stop there—you also have to be a constant role model. If you’re trying to advocate for something, you have to walk the talk. So, I’ve been trying my best to live mindfully and really, just be authentic with who I am and how I deal with others.

Peace is looking at the world around you and seeing the good that surrounds it. It’s living your life in the present, offering yourself mindfully to others and being aware of who you are and what the world needs from you.

Janessa Tek-ing

#WOMENFORPEACE: Soteya Trasadas

Tell us something about yourself. 

I was born and raised in the Province of Iloilo, and then I moved to Manila in 2015 to study for college. Currently, I am a 2nd-year law student at the University of San Agustin, Iloilo City. My years of experience and exposure in both conflict and non-conflict zones in the Philippines through TPBPM had strengthened my commitment to working for peace and empowering different sectors of society, especially the children and the youth. 

Tell us about your role in TPBPM.

I started with TPBPM as an intern back on April 20, 2015, and after that became part of the Secretariat Team where my first exposure was in Mamasapano, Maguindanao. I am one of the Peace Mission Leaders handling peace education projects for children, youth, teachers, parents, soldiers. I am involved in module writing, facilitating workshops, writing articles, creating content for social media and newsletters as well as organizing our schools and communities. 

What are the highlights of your experience with TPBPM?

I have to say that every experience with TPBPM especially when we are doing fieldwork is a memorable one. But if there is one thing that struck me the most is during our 3-hour peace education session in Marawi City at the height of the Marawi Siege. One of the facilitators approached me and introduced a kid to me and shared that he (the kid) idolize me and wanted to be like me when he grow up, someone who teaches other children, especially in their area where conflict and war are thriving. I did not expect that I will have an impact on that child given that we did the session for only 3-hours. My takeaway in that session is that – every moment is very precious as we may leave a mark on every child or person’s life. It was then I fully appreciated one of the guiding principles of TPBPM that we hold into – unless we teach our children peace, someone else will teach them violence. Thus, no time is wasted when we show kindness to every person. It is actually through our actions and words, whether we make or break a person. In those trying times, I am humbled to spark hope and draw inspiration to the child to do something not just for himself but also for the benefit of everyone; it allowed him to have a vision of something he can hold into, something beautiful and peaceful. 

What have you learned from TPBPM that you have applied in your life?

I am inspired by the words that before world peace, inner peace. This is something that I believe for we cannot give what we don’t have and attaining inner peace is not absolute and actual but an outcome of continuous practice. Being a peace advocate is not about perfection for compassion with oneself and others will always be tested due to the circumstances surrounding us every day. But at the end of the day, it is us and only we will have control over our thoughts, words, and actions. Our conscious effort and choice, one day at a time will be our source of peacefulness and will radiate to everyone surrounding us as well. As Thich Nhat Hanh said, peace is when your thoughts, words, and actions are in harmony. 

What’s your advice for young women who wants to advocate for peace?

As we move towards a more complex society, we need more young women and people to advocate for peace in order to transform the cycle of violence and conflict into a generation of peacebuilders. We need more young and passionate people who will educate the next generation on the art of peaceful living. Teaching peace goes beyond every gender and age. It is high time that we share whatever we have, for every act of kindness is an act of peace. 





Peace is when you are able to sit still and have positive thoughts no matter what negativity surrounds you. 

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