On Monday, July 27, 2026, a special lecture in English was delivered by Mr. Yoshihisa Ishikawa, former Consul-General of Japan in Davao (currently Consul-General in Kolkata), in the “Peace Studies” Liberal Arts Course taught by Professor YASUTOMI Atsushi.

Mr. Ishikawa explained the background of the conflict in Mindanao, Philippines, the course of the peace process, and the distinctive role Japan has played in local reconstruction and development. Drawing on his experience as a diplomat, he provided students with deep insights into the significance of Japan’s field-level contribution to peacebuilding in Mindanao.

The lecture was delivered entirely in English. During the subsequent Q&A session, students raised questions regarding decision-making and responses on the ground during the peacebuilding process, and Mr. Ishikawa elaborated on the local situation in Mindanao during key phases of the peace negotiations and the rationale behind Japan’s diplomatic and development engagement.

This special lecture provided students with a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of the complexity of peacebuilding in Mindanao and diplomatic practice on the ground.