09/06/2026
As the Former President of the Peace and Development Student Organization (PDSO), I am deeply saddened by the negative remarks directed toward the Peace and Development program by some applicants who were not admitted to Cotabato State University due to limited slots and admission requirements.
Disappointment is understandable, but it should never become a reason to belittle an academic program that has contributed significantly to peacebuilding and development, especially in the Bangsamoro region.
Peace and Development is more than just a course it is a discipline that nurtures future peacebuilders, community leaders, mediators, and development practitioners. The peace and progress that the Bangsamoro enjoys today are products of years of dialogue, cooperation, and development efforts, values that are at the core of our program.
For those who underestimate this field, it is worth noting that many respected leaders have pursued studies related to Peace and Development. Even our beloved Mayor Bruce "Para sa Lahat" Matabalao earned his Master's degree in Peace and Development, proving that this discipline plays a vital role in shaping leaders who serve their communities with vision and purpose.
Every academic program deserves respect because each contributes to society in its own unique way. As graduating students of Peace and Development, we remain proud of our discipline and its mission of promoting peace, justice, understanding, and sustainable development.
Let us be reminded that peace begins with respect. Before judging a program, let us first understand its value and contribution to our communities and our region.
Peace is not weakness. Peace is strength, leadership, and a responsibility that our society continues to need today more than ever.
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