Different religious leaders in BARMM openly exchange ideas, opinions, and views to attain respect and common understanding on their beliefs during the interfaith dialogue on May 29, 2024 in Cotabato City. (Photo courtesy of BDI)
COTABATO CITY — To promote harmony, mutual understanding, and peace among diverse religious communities in the region, the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ (BDI) hosted an interfaith dialogue on May 29, 2024, held here in the city.
The event brought together different religious leaders and scholars within the Bangsamoro communities to discuss their perspectives on attaining lasting peace in the Bangsamoro region.
Highlighting the role of dialogue in breaking down misconceptions and building bridges between different faiths, BDI’s esteemed Islamic Jurist Dr. Muhammad Nadzir Ebil emphasized the importance of inter-faith understanding in fostering peaceful coexistence and a more cohesive society.
He said, “Initiative like this is significant in promoting cooperation among diverse religious communities especially here in the Bangsamoro context where peace is very volatile.”
Among the event’s key highlights was the series of presentations on various concepts of peace from the resource persons, each representing a different faith or belief system.
Sister Maria Teresa Diaz presented the concept of peace from the Roman Catholic perspective.
“The teachings of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation are central to the Catholic faith where peace is deeply rooted in the practice of these virtues within the community,” Diaz said.
Shiekh Abdulkahar Musa offered insights into the Islamic perspective on peace and how the principles of peace are woven into the daily lives of Muslims.
Musa explained, “Peace is intrinsic to the teachings of Islam which advocates for harmony, justice, and the well-being of all humanity.”
Father Francis Imperial shared the Episcopal perspective on peace, focusing on the role of the church in promoting social justice and harmony.
He emphasized, “The church’s mission is to be a beacon of peace and a force for positive change in society.”
Pastor Brayan Saguban from the Evangelical Church discussed the Evangelical concept of peace, highlighting the transformative power of faith in fostering inner peace and community well-being.
Saguban stressed, “The importance of living out the values of peace in everyday actions and relationships.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Nicole Anne Lopez represented the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and discussed their unique approach to peace.
She explained, “HWPL’s efforts in advocating for global peace through education and active participation in peace-building initiatives.”
Dr. Ben Bello brought an important perspective on peace from Indigenous People’s groups.
He said, “Understanding peace as living in harmony with nature and each other, respecting ancestral traditions and wisdom.”
In a closing statement, BDI Director Emran Mohamad reflected on the day’s discussions and reiterated the importance of continuous dialogue and collaboration among faith communities across the region.
“Hope that these initiatives would pave the way for a more harmonious and understanding society in our region,” Mohamad stressed.
The inter-faith dialogue served as a platform for meaningful exchange of ideas and opinions in fostering a deeper understanding among diverse religious groups.
Moreover, the event demonstrated that despite differences in beliefs, practices, and diversity, the shared aspiration for peace unites all humanity. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO with reports from BDI)
