ILIGAN City — In a rare display of unity, women former combatants from groups once divided by conflict gathered to fly kites, trading the weight of war for a symbol of hope during the Mindanao Week of Peace.
Pakigdait Inc., alongside co-implementors under the UN Women WPHF-supported WeCare Project, organized the symbolic event titled “Kaliyaliyanga para ko Kalilintad” (Kite Flying for Peace) on Dec. 2-3.
Held simultaneously at Camp Bilal in Munai, Lanao del Norte, and the 103rd Infantry Brigade Grandstand, the activity brought together women former combatants from the MNLF and MILF, women in reintegration from the DI-Lanao Group, and former NPA rebels from Misamis Oriental and Caraga.
The event focused on rekindling hope and reaffirming a shared commitment to healing and reintegration. Participants wrote their personal aspirations for peace on their kites before releasing them into the sky—an image of shared dreams rising together.
At Camp Bilal, women of the MNLF and MILF adorned their kites with vibrant colors and messages of unity.
Meanwhile, at the 103rd Brigade, women in reintegration from the DI-Lanao Group crafted their kites alongside women in uniform, demonstrating trust-building and cooperation.
In her message of solidarity, Hafidah Maute highlighted the importance of unity and optimism.
“As we fly these kites, may these symbolize the peace and goodness in our hearts, and a bright future for our children and us. May this remind us peace is possible, beautiful, and achievable as long as we are all united,” Maute said.
Col. Ian Noel P. Ignes, deputy commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, underscored the importance of these collaborative efforts.
“Peace in the Bangsamoro will truly take off when communities, their leaders, the security forces, our CSO partners, the youth, and women stand united; each one of us holding a part of the string that keeps peace steady, strong, and rising higher,” Ignes emphasized.
As the kites soared above Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur, the atmosphere transformed into one of joy. Participants shared that the experience brought back memories of their youth — laughing, smiling, and rediscovering moments of freedom as their kites danced with the wind.
Jenny Sanguila, Pakigdait Inc. Programme Manager, reflected on the deeper significance of the initiative.
“More than drawings and words, these kites carry the collective hope of our people. When communities come together with compassion and sincerity, peace takes flight,” Sanguila said.
The “Kaliyaliyanga para ko Kalilintad” stands as a testament to the WeCare Project’s commitment to supporting the reintegration of women former combatants and cultivating safe, inclusive spaces where trust can thrive.
