“The drum was used to signal war. Now, the drum is beating in the name of peace, harmony and nature.”

The World Drum Festival, a project that travels around the world for peace and healing of Mother Earth, unfolded at the La Mesa Ecopark’s Amphitheater on April 18, 2009, from sunrise to sunset.

The celebration started with offerings and raising of prayer flags. Prayers of Christian, Hari Krishna, Interfaith Prayers by Peace Makers Circle and Babaylan rituals were summoned – a sign of peace between human beings with diverse beliefs. Guests and visitors alike frisked as native and foreign musicals were played simultaneously.

Renowned alternative musical groups and personalities: Kontemporaryong Gamelan Pilipino (Kontra Gapi), Bateria Brigada’s “Samba Drums for Mother Earth”, Dom-an Macagne from Kasiyana Peace and Healing Initiatives of Sagada, Musikalinangan and Cynthia Ayala Alexander graced the event.

The World Drum Project began in Norway as Birger Mikkelsen created a drum that would travel around the world as a call to save the environment. This event was organized by Earth Day Network Philippines, Bantay Kalikasan – La Mesa Ecopark, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, National Commission for Culture and the Arts and Society for Shamanic Practitioners.

Sunset closing ceremonies ended the event. “Round of Gratitude” or passing of the world drum around the circle of friends/musicians took place. This is to signify drum’s next journey in Republic of Tuva in Siberia.