Dr. Christopher Ryan Maboloc gives talk on Prospects of Peace and Progress in Mindanao to 16 La Salle schools

Dr. Christopher Ryan Maboloc of Ateneo de Davao University gave a two-hour talk on the prospects of peace and progress in Mindanao to faculty members of 16 La Salle schools in the Philippines during their social justice formation training program held at the Stone Chapel Recreation Center in Tangub City.

Dr. Maboloc provided the historical context to the Mindanao problem and explained the reasons for the social, economic and political exclusion of the island. He also mentioned the orthodoxy of the Christian and Muslim conflict as described by Patricio Abinales, as well and other factors, including its shadow economy, the dominance of local elites, and the reality of political dynasties. 

Prof. Janice DC Penaflor asked about the type of democracy that is needed in the country, explaining the role of the middle-class as in the case of Singapore. Dr. Maboloc then cited Amartya Sen who writes that Singapore has a high literacy rate, excellent infrastructure and a competent bureaucracy. Maboloc said that the historical context of the Philippines is important in realizing the moral goals of Filipinos as a people.