Aliah P. Cali-Pascan, DPA, JD
Marawi City, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao – March 18, 2025 – A significant step towards interreligious understanding and peacebuilding was taken yesterday as four seminarians from St. John Vianney Theological Seminary of Cagayan de Oro City visited the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) Marawi Campus.
The visit, aimed at broadening the seminarians’ perspectives on human nature and testing their fitness for pastoral work and priestly ministry, provided a unique opportunity for engagement with Muslim brothers and sisters. It served as a practical exercise in interreligious dialogue, a crucial component in the pursuit of peace and development in the Philippines.
The seminarians’ experience was designed to foster a deeper appreciation for the historical struggles faced by the people of Mindanao, highlighting the importance of mutual understanding and respect in bridging cultural and religious divides.
“This engagement is invaluable for these future priests,” stated Dr. Acram Latiph, Executive Director of IPDM. “Understanding the diverse realities within our nation is essential for building a truly inclusive and peaceful society.”
The IPDM team, comprising Dr. Acram Latiph, Peace Education Officer Prof. Aldean Alonto, and Prof. Corazon Mangelen, warmly welcomed the visitors. They were enthusiastic to facilitate the interactions and share their insights on the importance of interreligious dialogue.
Prof. Alonto emphasized, “By engaging in meaningful conversations and learning from each other, we can break down stereotypes and build bridges of trust. This visit exemplifies how dialogue can contribute to a more harmonious and peaceful future.”
The seminarians themselves expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow. They acknowledged the experience as a transformative one, solidifying their commitment to promoting interreligious dialogue as a vital tool for peacebuilding.
This visit serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts of organizations like IPDM in fostering understanding and cooperation among different religious communities. By providing platforms for dialogue and education, they are contributing to the creation of a more just and peaceful society in Mindanao and beyond.
