Datu Paglas Town: A model for Peace and development

THE PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER Online| November 16, 2006 | PRINT THIS ARTICLE

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The former mayor of the town of Datu Paglas in Maguindanao – Datu Toto Paglas himself - will present how a small, underdeveloped town can be transformed into an economically viable community in Mindanao with empowered townsfolks. A true and inspiring story

This special presentation will take place on Monday, November 20, 6:30pm at the Philippine Center (556 Fifth Avenue, New York City). It is in line with the Consulate’s program to present the culture and traditions of our Muslim brothers to the community in New York.

Datu Paglas Town was once the site of civil strife, kidnappings and other politically motivated violence. Today, Datu Paglas is one of Muslim Mindanao’s rare development success stories. The town’s economic miracle was brought about by aid from the Philippine government and World Bank, by an empowered community and by the town’s business venture and cooperation with international businesses. Its business venture with Chiquita banana brands, named La Frutera Inc., is now the largest foreign investment project in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Of La Frutera’s 2,000-man work force, about 90% had been members or sympathizers of the MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front).

All are welcome! Please RSVP at (212) 764-1330 ext 310 or 336.

More information on the Datu Paglas may be found on www.datupaglas.com