The speakers were as follows:

Maica Sira – Heroism as a Student

Ram – Narratives on Women’s Heroism

Mags Maglana – Heroism During Martial Law

Zea Capistrano- Heroism in Journalism

Darrell Blatchley – Heroism on all Capacities

Lemuel Manalo – Heroism for the Environment

Capt. Alex Cabales – Heroism as a Soldier

Another presentation was given by a first responder during the Roxas bombing. However, the speaker was unable to attend and opted not to disclose his name. He was from the 5FAB, AAR, PA.

The event was attended by audiences from different fields, mostly students and people from the arts community.

As a member of the organizing committee, I would have to say that this is one of the events closest to my heart. We have already started planning for this event earlier, however, after the bombing in Roxas Night Market last September 2, 2016, less than 2 weeks before the event, our focus slightly shifted, our goal became even clearer. We needed to stamp in people’s minds that anybody can be heroes.

Following the incident, small and loud gestures of heroism arose, and we wanted to acknowledge and remember them; the security personnel and civilians who responded to the event, giving aid to those who were hurt, the CENRO personnel who cleaned up and tried to remove traces of the tragedy, everyone who went around the city, giving water and food to the security forces, the students who gave free hugs, the local government who tried to ensure our safety, the people of Davao who refused to be frightened by the terroristic act, the businesses who tried to survive despite the scare, the friends and loved ones who wished us well.

It may be a little hard to understand our reactions. However those who have lived in, or know anyone from Davao would understand. Despite the size of our city, it’s still a small town in the sense that everyone seems to know everyone. It comes with perks and disadvantages. But during a tragedy of this scale, it means everyone may know someone who was a victim of the blast. It hurt me, it hurt everyone.

So during the Pecha Kucha preparation, when it became evident that our newest volunteers were going to be actively involved, and two of our members were going to speak, it was a proud moment. When the event came, and questions were thrown at speakers, deep conversations started, and differences were set aside to honor each other’s contribution to “heroism”, it was proof that heroism is alive and well among the youth.

I hope that a few of our speakers who found it hard to get an audience for their cause gained hope. I hope the youth who listened gained inspiration. Because in a time of fear, we look for heroes. What we don’t realize is that we already have heroes in our midst. What we don’t know is that we all have the potential to be heroes.

View photos on the event here: