Indigenous youth leaders from Mindanao representing the Blaan, Matigsalog, Pulangiyēn, Higaonon, and Umajamnon communities recently came together for a transformative three-week workshop at Balay Laudato Si’ in Bendum, Bukidnon.
More than a workshop, the Beginners’ Program on Inculturation, Synodality, Integral Ecology and Indigenous Pastoral Ministry from 22 April to 10 May 2025 is a journey of identity, faith, and hope for the 15 Indigenous youth.
“I am hoping that what I learn here, I can share to others,” Dave, an Umajamnon youth from Cabanglasan, Bukidnon said.
Pedro Walpole SJ, Coordinator of the River Above Asia Oceania Ecclesial Network (RAOEN), said that the gathering is intended as a guide for the youth to reflect deeply on the challenges they face and the strengths they draw from their culture and spirituality.
“Honestly, I’m not very active in the Church,” shares Eneriza, a Pulangiyēn youth from Bendum. “But for me, I see that cultural practices and Church traditions are very similar. As an indigenous, I follow our traditional ways, but I’m open to learning the ways of the Church. I see a connection between the two.”
This openness in bridging tradition and faith is at the heart of inculturation and synodality: walking together, listening to one another, and recognizing the sacred in both ancestral wisdom and Christian spirituality.
“We must not only observe community realities, we must be part of their transformation,” said Dr Emil Ibera, highlighting the urgent call to action. “Many of our youth cannot complete their studies due to socio-economic challenges. These require concrete action, not just reflection.” Dr Ibera and Father Walpole are facilitating the workshop.
During the first week of the workshop, the youth explored their cultural and social contexts, how faith and identity intersect, the power of community-led action, and the paths to a resilient and inclusive future.
“This is what integral ecology looks like – where the care for creation meets the care for culture and community,” Father Walpole said.
The 15 young leaders are crafting a shared vision in unity – one where culture is not a barrier to faith but its foundation, where tradition is not something to escape but to embrace and grow from.
Together, they are lighting a path forward – rooted in heritage, grounded in faith, ready for action.