Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) marked World Interfaith Harmony Week and the official opening of Arts Month with a vibrant celebration at the Juanito Bruno Gymnasium on February 3, 2025.
With the theme “Celebrating the Call to Build Harmony and Peace with All People of Sincere Hearts,” Dr. Joselito Madroñal, Vice President for Administration and Finance, emphasized the university’s role as a beacon of peace. “For many years, WMSU has been more than just an institution of learning. We have been a force for change, a catalyst for peacebuilding, and a steadfast partner in the pursuit of harmony,” he stated.
The WMSU Peace and Human Security Institute, led by Assoc. Prof. Ludivina B. Dekit, organized the event and invited three distinguished speakers renowned for their peace advocacy:
● Fr. Sebastian D’Ambra, founder of the Silsilah Dialogue Movement
● Sheik Mahir Gustaham, Muslim Convener of the Interreligious Solidarity for Peace
● Fr. Guilrey Anthony Andal, SJ, President of Ateneo de Zamboanga University
Following the interfaith celebration, WMSU officially launched Arts Month with the theme “Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin.” The event featured a colorful parade with participants from various colleges, showcasing the university’s rich artistic spirit. The Office of Culture and Arts, under the leadership of Dr. Almira E. Nochefranca, has planned a series of cultural and artistic activities throughout the month to celebrate creativity and self-expression.
