DepEd chief urges teachers, students to be peace-conscious
By: Jeannette I. Andrade – Reporter / @jiandradeINQ
Education Secretary Armin Luistro. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–Education Secretary Armin Luistro has urged all teachers, students and agency employees to recite the “Harmony Prayer” and “Pledge of Peace” in flag-raising rites for the celebration of the National Peace Consciousness Month this September.
Luistro said the “Harmony Prayer” is a universal prayer for peace while the “Pledge of Peace” vows to pursue a culture of non-violence and contribute to the country’s progress through his individual efforts.
In his Sept. 5 memorandum, Luistro also encouraged Department of Education (DepEd) officials, employees as well as all public and private primary and secondary schools nationwide to hold activities highlighting this year’s theme, “Nagkakaisang Bayan para sa Kapayapaan (One nation for Peace),” and the purpose of the commemoration.
“The celebration aims to instill consciousness and understanding among the Filipino people on the comprehensive peace process, as well as the government’s peace constituency building initiatives, by participating in relevant and meaningful activities during the peace month.”
September was declared National Peace Consciousness Month by Presidential Proclamation 675 signed on July 20, 2004.
To show the department’s support for the celebration, Luistro encouraged the display of “2014 National Peace Consciousness Month” streamers with this year’s theme on all DepEd offices as well as in both public and private school buildings.
Luistro also asked public and private schools nationwide to hold month-long activities, which will include the theme and message of peace.