PRAYER FOR PEACE
Peace is the clamor of everyone all over the world. Conflicts within the same area and evenoutside the territorial domain of a particular region most often can be read in newsprint and social media. There is much to be addressed in order to contain these conflicts.
Peace-loving people continue to campaign for complete peace in every way possible but the most powerful weapon is prayer.
On April 01, 2015, at the Japanese Cemetery in Mintal, Davao, we witnessed a gathering of participants invoking and imploring from our Almighty peace not only in Davao but the whole of Mindanao.
The office of the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai, Inc. received a call from Mr. Nori Inomata, the Director General of the Philippine Nikkei Legal Support Center based in Japan that Rev. Minesaka Mitsue together with her group would be coming to offer prayer for peace. Arrangements for the conduct of such activity took place with the unselfish support of Captain Ramon Bargamento of Barangay Mintal. His office provided tent, chairs and sound system for the successful celebration of the prayer for peace.
During said occasion, Mrs. Ines P. Mallari, President of the Philippine Nikkeijin Rengokai delivered her welcome address, followed by the interreligious prayers from Christians, Muslim, Indigenous and Buddhist groups. Rev. Mitsue of the Rissho Kosei Kai gave an inspirational talk that was translated in the English Language by Kazuko Suenaga. Her talk was focused on the happiness of the people and peace of mind. Before the conclusion of the activity Mrs. Aiko Tanaka, a product of the early generation gave an account of her experience before, during and after the war. She could vividly recall those unforgettable events that resulted in the progress of Davao City, then named Little Tokyo. So much could be learned from her that her presence was specially requested by Mr. Inomata.
As a closing remark Mr. Tomo Matsui of the Mindanao Children Library was called to share his experience in adopting abandoned children. Those who offered prayers are under his care and would soon leave should lucrative opportunity come their way.
At noon time, the group transferred to PNJK-IS Calinan Branch where the teachers headed by the School Principal await our arrival. Songs and dances were presented to the delight of everyone.
The Cat. C 2nd generations prior to April 01, 2015 were advised to come and as soon as they converged at the school gym, Mr. Inomata advised them to extend their patience as presentation of evidence linking their lineage to their Japanese ascendants entail a lot of work. Moreover, more convincing evidence must be gathered and presented before the Family Court to obtain favorable judgment.
All left Calinan with smiles and contentment. The Rissho Kosei Kai group left with memories they would forever cherish while the descendants are hopeful that in due time they can set foot in the land of the rising sun.
We thank Mr. Inomata for facilitating the visit of the Rissho Kosei-Kai. Our heartfelt thanks to Rev. Minesaka Mitsue for giving us the drive to move forward in achieving peace and we thank Mrs. Tanaka for sharing her experience. Our profound thanks to Barangay Mintal under the leadership of Capt. Bargamento and to all who had contributed in the success of the holding of the event, the PNJK Staff, the PNJK-IS, Calinan Branch people with Mrs. Carmen C. Apigo as the head of the said entity. The Cat. C descendants who came and found time to be with us during that event, from the bottom of our heart thank you for your cooperation.