Rover Peace Baton turned-over to James L. Gordon Council

To create awareness and promote peace activities in the Asia Pacific Region in celebration of its Golden Jubilee, the Rover Peace Baton has been launched originating from 3 main routes which started on August 20, 2006 from Fiji, Pakistan and Japan.

From these three different countries, the Batons will be brought to strategic cities in the Philippines: Zamboanga City, Cebu City and Subic, and will be passed around to most of the BSP Councils. The merging point would be Bonifacio Shrine, Ermita where the 3 Batons will be joined together in a hand-over ceremony on March 10, 2007.

The Baton was recieved by Mayor James Gordon from Thailand Permanent Deputy Minister for Education Boonrat Wongjai in ceremonies held at the Olongapo Convention Center.

Aside from providing a great opportunity for young people to understand their roles in creating a better world as well as to generate a positive image of Scouting, the Peace Baton Relay aims to create a friendly and open environment where peace stays and grows in the hearts of every individual.

The Baton, which is made of brass that is gold-plated, signifies love for peace which will be passed from one place to another.

The brass metal implies strength of character of Scouts coupled with their sensitivity and compassion for people. Similarly, gold represents success and power. Scouting invokes the power of influence inspiring people to do good which benefits society itself. Scouts have also been in the forefront fighting against all forms of violence.