BARMM VOICES

In a region where diverse communities have long shared a common space where they navigate the complexities of history, faith, and identity while striving towards peace and unity. This is what it looks like for the people within Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, as the sun rises over the bustling region, you find cities where there is a call to prayer that echoes across the land for the Muslims, which blends with the distant ringing of the church bells and the practices of the indigenous people.

BARMM is a region that was shaped by history. The region’s story is one that consists of resilience and coexistence. They have endured colonization, political struggles, and internal conflicts, yet through it all, its people have sought ways to bridge this division that’s placed within the region. For centuries, trade, familial ties, and shared traditions have woven this fabric of interconnectedness that remains strong today amongst the people of BARMM.

One looks around the cities and provinces within BARMM, you can see the diversity flowing through the region. From Muslims, Christians, and Indigenous People, most often then not, we cannot avoid the common discrepancies especially in difference of each other’s cultures, beliefs, and practices, however what remains the same for all of them despite their differences is their commitment towards peace, which leads to their goal for unity in the region.

One of the key elements in this unity is dialogue. Across generations, religious leaders and community elders have gathered together to discuss conflicts, resolve misunderstandings, and reaffirm their commitment to peaceful cohabitation. These conversations have played a crucial role in maintaining harmony and shaping BARMM’s evolving identity.

One such initiative took place on May 29, 2024, when the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ (BDI) organized an interfaith dialogue in Cotabato City. Different religious leaders, scholars, and advocates from a variety of faiths came together to discuss their perspectives on peace and mutual understanding in the region.

Dr. Muhammad Nadzir Ebil, an esteemed Islamic jurist, opened the discussion by emphasizing, “Initiatives like this are significant in promoting cooperation among diverse religious communities, especially in BARMM, where peace remains a continuous effort.”

Each speaker contributed unique insights into their perspectives on peace. Representatives from different faith traditions shared their views on harmony, justice, and reconciliation as fundamental elements of coexistence. A Catholic speaker emphasized the values of love and forgiveness, while an Islamic scholar highlighted the role of justice and mutual respect in fostering peace. A Christian minister spoke on faith’s role in strengthening communities, and an Indigenous leader discussed the deep connection between peace, nature, and ancestral traditions. A representative from an international peace organization also shared insights on global peace efforts and education.

The Bangsamoro Government reaffirmed its support for the Religious Peace Academy (RPA) during its inauguration on August 1 at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex (SKCC) within the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City. With the theme “Creating a Platform for Enhancing Comparative Scriptural Knowledge,” the event was spearheaded by the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL–Philippines) to establish connections and foster harmonious relationships regardless of religious affiliation.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim highlighted the important role of religious figures in maintaining peace and harmony by emphasizing that the academy represents a commitment to continued peace efforts in the region. He expressed confidence that the initiative would cultivate advocates for religious peace worldwide.

John Rommel Garces, Chief Branch Manager of HWPL Philippines, was tasked to explain the RPA and he shared that the academy would offer 33-lesson lecture series, each lasting up to 45 minutes. These lessons, accessible via an online platform, facilitate in-depth study of various religious scriptures to promote global peace and harmony. "The RPA lectures are free of charge, and we anticipate registrations from 500, 1000, or even more individuals. The lecture series will begin on August 7 and conclude on December 3, followed by a graduation ceremony,"

The event emphasized BARMM’s continued commitment to interfaith understanding, with leaders across faiths acknowledging the importance of religious dialogue in preventing conflicts and fostering cooperation. Beyond discussions, faith communities in BARMM actively collaborate in social development projects. Schools, livelihood programs, and humanitarian initiatives are often led by interfaith partnerships, proving that unity is not just an aspiration but a lived reality.

Cultural exchanges also serve as a bridge between communities. These shared moments of joy reinforce the idea that faith need not divide, it can bring people together. Despite these efforts, BARMM continues to face challenges. Historical wounds, cultural differences, political complexities, and lingering prejudices occasionally strain interfaith relations. However, the commitment to peace remains unwavering. Education, youth engagement, and grassroots initiatives are paving the way for a future where mutual understanding prevails over division.

As the people of BARMM continue their journey, the region stands as a symbol of hope, a testament to the power of faith in fostering unity. Here, where the call to prayer harmonizes with church bells and Indigenous chants, a shared future is being written. It is a future built not on uniformity but on respect, understanding, and the unwavering belief that peace is always possible.

References:

Bangsamoro Information Office. (n.d.). Bangsamoro gov’t promotes interfaith harmony thru religious peace studies. Bangsamoro Government. https://bangsamoro.gov.ph/news/latest-news/bangsamoro-govt-promotes-interfaith-harmony-thru-religious-peace-studies/