Interfaith Dialogue: tool in disaster response to the crisis in Marawi

DAVAO CITY — As a way to build harmonious relationships with other faiths, Interfaith Dialogue served as a perfect tool in disaster response. The Psychology Department of the Ateneo de Davao University headed by Dr. Vilo Tan Iligan engaged for (6) six-months the community in Marawi City. “Our mandate is to respond to the community needs specifically psychological needs in the disaster,” Dr. Tan said during the theological forum held at St. Alponsus theological and Mission Institute, Redemptorist Bajada, just last month.

The Marawi siege has brought forth half-million Internally Displaced persons or IDPs, but after the completion of the disaster assistance family of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) it went down to 359, 680 IDPs who are also having limitations in terms of language, exposure and lack of resources.

Rodge Lelis, a Mental Health and Social Support Specialist of the Center of Psychological and Research Services or COPER, said, “we position ourselves to provide accompaniment to locally-based Psychosocial Support (PSS) service providers and other duty-bearers.” These locally-based partners and resources are the IDP volunteers, duty bearers, community and religious leaders who are at the same time a mixture of faiths.

Thus, understanding others’ faith, they were able to unite for the greater good. And this happens through various trainings and workshops that are grounded on the connection between mental health, well-being and peace. There has been consistent consultations with religious and community leaders, IDPs and volunteers in the development of culturally-appropriate psycho education materials and peace-themed worksheets. (Patricia Dave Teoxon | HCDC Intern)