Peace Project

By: Anna Patricia Carillo

Composer, musician and new peace ambassador.

Ebe Dancel, one of the Philippines most sought after singer songwriters can now add peace ambassador to his resume. Last September at the Rizal hall in Malacanang, Ebe along with celebrities like Noel Cabangon, Christian Bautista and Anne Curtis were inaugurated by President Benigno Aquino III as ambassadors for peace.

Most of those inaugurated volunteered to be ambassadors for peace, like Ebe Dancel. Ebe was originally asked to write the official theme for the peace campaign. They then asked him after some time if he wanted to be a peace ambassador and he immediately said yes

“It's nice to do things outside of music (even if the job entails writing the theme). I'm a big fan of peace and in my own little way, I believe I can influence a few people to live our lives in peace,” Ebe says.

Ebe was the vocalist for the band Sugarfree and lead guitarist for Cambio. He is currently going solo and working on other projects and collaborations.

Ebe believes that every Filipino has the power to influence change and peace in the world. “We are the ones directly affected by peace talks, and we all have voices we use to raise concerns and work together,” he says.

He also wants to promote peace by simply telling people to be more understanding and compassionate. 

Beginning within is the start to spreading the message of peace.

“From within, you work your way to your home, then neighborhood, and so on. Baby steps!,” Ebe says.

To spread the message on peace, Ebe plans to go to as many government sponsored activities as he can. As music is his main avenue they have held concerts throughout the country like in Baguio, Manila, Davao, and Iloilo.

Regarding his view on the recent peace pact in Mindanao, Ebe says, “We're a step closer to lasting peace. 

It's important that all concerns are addressed, all voices are heard, all factors are taken into consideration. “

“I pray that the recent breakthrough will encourage more people to put down their arms. I feel for people who live their lives in fear, who lose homes and loved ones. I pray and I know that peace is always within reach,” he adds.