By Aliah P. Cali-Pascan, JD., DPA
On a recent episode of the radio program last February 21, 2025 dubbed as “Shuaramsu”, in partnership with Radyo Pilipinas Marawi, hosted by Aliah Pacalna Cali-Pascan, Peace Action Officer, Prof. Norkaya Saruang Mohammad and Laida Matuan, members of the Ranao Muslim Christian Movement for Dialogue and Peace, shared their experiences and the vital work of their organization. Their insights shed light on the challenges and triumphs of fostering understanding and cooperation between Muslims and Christians in the Ranao region of Mindanao.
A Family of Peacebuilders
Prof. Norkaya Saruang Mohammad, former Director of the Institute of Local Governance, revealed a unique aspect of their organization: it operates as a close-knit “family” rather than a formally registered entity with the Security and Exchange Commission. This familial bond, she explained, is the foundation of their sustained relationships and enables them to engage in impactful voluntary work, often in collaboration with other organizations like IPDM.
Overcoming Prejudice, Promoting Understanding
Laida Matuan shared her personal experiences of discrimination in Manila due to her hijab. These encounters, far from discouraging her, fueled her determination to challenge misconceptions about Islam. “It gave me strength to eradicate the misconception about Islam as a religion,” she stated, emphasizing the movement’s role in conveying the message that Islam is a religion of peace to their Christian brothers and sisters.
Forging Unity Through Dialogue
The core mission of the Ranao Muslim Christian Movement, as articulated by Norkaya Mohammad, is to strengthen the relationship between Muslims and Christians. The organization firmly believes that conflict resolution is achievable through dialogue and mutual understanding. This commitment drives their various initiatives and collaborations.
A Framework for Understanding To better understand the movement’s work, it’s essential to consider the following:
A. History and Mission:
The movement was formed in response to the need to bridge divides and foster peace between Muslim and Christian communities in the Ranao region.
Its primary goals are to promote interfaith dialogue, build trust, and create a culture of peace.
Key stakeholders include community leaders, religious figures, and individuals committed to peacebuilding.
Peace and dialogue are defined as active processes of understanding, respect, and collaboration.
B. Activities and Impact:
The movement engages in various activities, including interfaith dialogues, workshops, community projects, and advocacy work.
They have achieved successes in fostering understanding and cooperation, often through personal stories and community based initiatives.
Challenges include funding, community resistance, and navigating complex political and social landscapes.
The movement measures impact through community feedback, and observed changes in community relations.
C. Current Issues and Future Directions:
Pressing issues include addressing remaining prejudices, promoting inclusive development, and maintaining peace in a region with a history of conflict.
The movement continues to address these challenges through dialogue, education, and collaboration.
Future priorities include expanding their reach, strengthening partnerships, and developing sustainable peacebuilding initiatives.
Individuals and organizations can support the movement through volunteering, donations, and participating in their programs.
D. Personal Perspectives:
Members are motivated by a deep commitment to peace and a desire to build a harmonious future for the Ranao region.
Their hope is to create a society where Muslims and Christians live together in mutual respect and understanding.
The Ranao Muslim Christian Movement for Dialogue and Peace stands as a testament to the power of human connection and the enduring pursuit of peace. Their work highlights the importance of dialogue, understanding, and collaboration in building a more harmonious future for the Ranao region and beyond.
