U.S. soldiers to take course on Sulu culture
In a move to prevent misunderstandings between two unrelated cultures, the military yesterday said it will give American troops taking part in the controversial wargames to be held in Sulu the same cultural sensitivity orientation that their colleagues who participated in last year's Balikatan (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) 02-1 undertook.
"And I intend to see this being prioritised at the start of Balikatan 03-1 in Sulu," said Lt Gen Narciso Abaya, Southern Command chief.
He said Zamboanga officials and academicians will give U.S. soldiers lectures on Sulu's people, literature, attitudes and beliefs.
Noting that Americans appreciate learning about new cultures, Lt Gen Abaya said he sees no problem with the course.
Amilusin Jumaani, secretary general of the Salam (Peace) Found-ation and grand mufti of Western Mindanao, said U.S. troops must be aware of the history of Sulu and its people, in order to avoid future problems due to cultural differences.
"Our people suffered during the Spanish time, the American and Japanese eras, but not all of them are taking the anger in their hearts because they long for lasting peace," Jumaani said.
Capt John Amberg, U.S. military spokesperson for the Bayanihan (Helping Hand) exercises, said the U.S. servicemen had already recognised the need for them to undertake culture classes.
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