In Harmony: World Interfaith Harmony Week 2025 Unites Diverse Faiths and Tribes in Davao City

The World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW), held from February 3 to 8, 2025, successfully brought together diverse religious denominations and tribes across the city. Celebrated annually, this worldwide initiative fosters understanding, respect, and peace among people of different faiths and cultures. This year’s theme, “Celebrating the Call to Build Harmony and Peace with People of Sincere Hearts,” emphasizes unity, compassion, and the shared desire of a more peaceful world.

WIHW originated from a United Nations Resolution (No. 65/15), proposed by King Abdullah II and Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad of Jordan. Adopted by the UN General Assembly on October 23, 2010, the resolution recognized the important role of interfaith dialogue in achieving lasting peace. The United Nations encourages all countries to promote interfaith harmony, recognizing love and compassion as key to global development and peace.

In the Philippines, WIHW is supported by Republic Act No. 10525, signed into law under President Benigno Aquino Jr. This law designates the first week of February as World Interfaith Harmony Week, a move endorsed by various local governments, including Davao City.

WIHW’s core goal is to reflect on the spiritual importance of interfaith dialogue. Such dialogue, beyond resolving conflict, helps build lasting harmony in daily life.

Dianka Cervantes one of the participants in the said event, from the Muslim Village in Bangkal, Davao City shared experiences of overcoming prejudice and discrimination. Ms. Cervantes reflected on the struggles faced by Muslims, particularly in the 1970s, when they fought for peace amidst misunderstanding. She expressed gratitude for WIHW’s platform for meaningful dialogue, noting how it fosters mutual understanding and contributes to the peace process. “isip usa ka inahan akong gihandom ang kalinaw ug panaghiusa kay kita manag-isguon ra,” Cervantes said, emphasizing the importance of interfaith harmony for future generations.

As we celebrate WIHW, let us renew our commitment to building harmony and understanding in our communities. By embracing differences and working together, we can create a world where peace is not just a vision but a shared reality. (Sem. Roldan Baliano)