This story focuses on the divide between Muslims and Christians that is now being bridged through the efforts of different stakeholders who believe that wherever you come from the Philippines, everyone is a brother. It portrays the commitment to building the Philippines and working for justice for Filipinos by bridging all forms of gaps.
I was born and raised in Manila and only knew of Sulu as the war zone. The fight has been going on for years but until now it has not been solved. They say that it’s because of the conflict between Muslims and Christians. Some say that it’s because of the selfishness of terrorists. People have been kidnapped, murdered, maltreated in the island paradise. The question now is when will the war end? I go to Sulu to capture the “other war” that is going on. People have always used the word “Jihad” when going to battle. Terrorists who have claimed their cause as a holy war have misused this word. Today, I stand witness on how “Jihad” has been redefined. What we now have is a Holy War against poverty.
When you go to Sulu, you will be scared for your life. Only three things could happen to you; first, to live another day, second, to be caught in combat and die in the process or lastly, to be kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf and be dragged to the mountains. I live to tell the story of unending hope, the peoples desire for reconciliation, the other war that is going on, the yearning and craving and longing for unity and oneness. I am a firm believer that there is a chance for everlasting peace
