Since my assumption, I have openly invited acquaintances to drop on my porch either to have coffee or exchange thoughts with me. My porch then was a shaded and fenced area next to my temporary lodging and furnished with native furniture. The increasing number of visiting friends afterward required for a bigger space; hence, the Pagari Park. "Pagari" means friendship in Maranao.
A related article with pictures entitled "Army Sultan's shot for unity in Mindanao" at Mindanao Examiner and at Blogger; also in PIA Website (by Breezy Jimenez) as "Sultan Brigade Opens Pagari Park."
A fountain and ornamental plants under the trees beautifully complemented the rocks—some of which serve as natural tables and chairs. The park features three corners representing the major Philippine Muslim cultures—Maguindanao, Maranao, and Tausug—have inspired the brigade moniker of "Sultan." During the inauguration of the park, guests had the chance to have a glimpse of the different traditional wear of each ethnic group and sample their respective delicacies.
"Pagari Park has a strong good vibes," comments a theosophist echoing the observations of other guests. This encouraging remark is a wonderful incentive for the park to serve as the brigade porch in fostering unity and harmony.
Pagari Park was realized with the support and contributions of those who shared the thought of promoting peace. My personal gratitude to my wife, Belle, and her "committee of three" (Eza, Jeffrey & Nhor) for assisting me in realizing this concept; and to TSG Francisco Saladaga for his passionate commitment to this endeavor. Also, I acknowledge the invaluable support of the following: Hon. Jaber Azis, Michelle Daniel, Hon. Maminta Dimakuta, Robert Estroga Landscaping Services, Eza Galvez, Jeffrey Rufo Galvez, Norcaya Maquiling, Hon. Mastura Manangolo, Hon. Elias Montod, Alexis Natividad, Hon. Haironi Omar, Engr. Marivel Frances Ong, Engr. Hilal Sangcopan, Hon. Hadji Yusop Saripada, Engr. Roger Suyang, and other personnel of the brigade.
Pagari rings a lot to me as a christian who grew up in the islamic city of marawi, and brought me back to my childhood days. the park reminded me of the ties that i have developed, strengthened with my muslim childhood friends way back in the 70s and 80s. i have been attuned of growing up with true pagari despite the differences of cultural beliefs and religious affiliations. it also made me realize that i have not stopped relating my pagari,friends i had decades ago, but have gained more pagaris until this time... some of them are in the 104th and some are in the communities that we are working with...not limiting to moro tribe but with the higaunons and other indigenous peoples.
ReplyDeletethanks for affirming me, and others who do recognize that in a community - diversity exists and this is what we can capitalize on..we can build on our diversity and from these differences, we have a lot to share with each other...
pagari park be a symbol of hope and a true space of strengthening the ties of all peoples of diverse culture that are together building a culture of peace and harmony ... in spirit and in flesh..
Thanks for your heartwarming comments.
ReplyDeletehope to drop by and have coffee with friends at the pagari park po....
ReplyDeleteYou will be most welcome. Please advise so we can attend to you. Thanks.
ReplyDelete