OUR HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The relentless wars in Mindanao since the martial law days made its people live in substandard human condition. People have stored memories of chilling fears caused by roaring sound of mortar shelling and gun burst. They learned to hide and run trekking through marshy areas or dense forests to save their lives during genocidal campaign in early 70’s, all-out war of 2000, and during fierce war that happened in 20003 under all-out peace policy of the government.
Truly, the experiences in the war have been emotionally and mentally oppressive. It developed anguish in the hearts and minds of the people especially the young ones whom at young age were already traumatized by the goriness of wars. Thus, they grow unproductively. Some turned drug addicts and engaged in different forms of illegal activities. Others have been treading the path of their forbears who took arms against the government whom they thought had deprived them of ideal life as means of articulating their rights and seeking justice.
Having the above realities, the United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD) was born to help alleviate the plight of its people in Mindanao and other places especially those marginalized sectors of the society. The Youth behind this organization are equipped with willingness and dedication to give their service to the utmost of their capacities. These youth leaders believed that economic prosperity is an essential element of a peaceful and just governance. They also believed that peace must come before development, and that sustainable development should start from the grass-roots level. They hope that, through these organization’s comprehensive programs and services, they can collectively contribute to shape a brighter future and peaceful horizon for their people.
OUR VISION
The UNYPAD envisions to be an excellent youth development center that works for the attainment of a prosperous and peaceful society and champions just and holistic approach to developments.
OUR MISSION
To produce competent, effective and efficient young leaders that will meaningfully render spiritual, political and socio-economic services to the society.
OUR GOAL
To mobilize young individuals and equip them with essential knowledge, skills and appropriate technologies so as to become agents of society that will promote unity and solidarity, transparency and accountability in governance.
OUR OBJECTIVES
- To capacitate youth to become productive, effective and efficient leaders and managers, and expert in peace building, which includes conflict resolution and transformation, and development work;
- To render post-conflict services on social, economic and cultural aspect in the conflict-affected areas and other depressed communities;
- To raise awareness in preserving and protecting environment and natural resources;
- To initiate and facilitate relief, rehabilitation and development activities in disaster prone areas;
- To encourage women’s participation in nation-building and promote gender consciousness;
- To promote human rights as foundation for building a peaceful society;
- To promote cultural sensitivity and spiritual consciousness between and among members of the organization and communities; and
- To establish data base on socio-economic, political and cultural profiles of the communities.