History Unveils at The First International Summit On Mindanao

Philippines is one of the riches archipelago when it comes to natural resources. It is sad that we are not maximizing the potential to take advantage of it. One of the most riches parts in the archipelago can be found in Mindanao. One of the examples of these resources are rubber in Zamboanga and coffee in Sulu which I also learned from Coffee Origins 2012.

Princess Isabelle (center) and Shariff Albani(far right)

The conflict in Mindanao is one of the main concerns to both Christians and Muslims. I will not deal with the issue but I can only say what can we do about it. One of the possible solutions is see Mindanao from within. In order to do that, it was suggested by peace advocate Shariff Ibrahim Albani; Founding Chairperson and CEO of Unity for Revival Foundation.

Shariff Albani invites prospect investors to see the potential in making it happen by seeing the existing companies that operates within Mindanao. During the IBSM program held last June 28 in Manila Hotel, I never thought I can see dignitaries from different countries including China and Japan in one place. The Princess of Mindanao, Isabelle Lafforgue was also present to support the summit.

During the presentations, I got to see that the existing major businesses in Zamboanga are inside the Economic Zone like San Miguel Corporation, Globe Telecoms and more to be listed. Besides the existing businesses, it is also suggested that Mindanao can also be a major tourist destinations because it also has white sand beaches that can compete with Boracay and Coron. In addition to the beaches, there are also historical landmarks for us to see.

Before we were colonized, our nation were already prosperous and in content even without any monetary unit. We only bartered. Sure, there were conflicts but it was easily settled. This historic gathering will be a start of a new Mindanao and to the hope that this summit will be instrumental will bring peace. Shariff Albani's vision is for this event is to help the government. Instead of doing nothing, why not do something. But the next step is, what role can take part to make it happen. For more updates and future events about ISBM, follow this blog or like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.