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BAGUIO CITY — The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF)-North Luzon Regional Office, through its Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution Division (PBCRD), successfully conducted a Peace Forum: “Shared Responsibility for a Peaceful Community” on March 9, 2026, at Lafayatte Luxury Suites in the Pine City.
Gathered participants from various national government line agencies included the OCD-CAR, NBI-CAR, PNP-BCPO, BJMP, NICA, CHR-CAR, DILG-CAR, PDEA-CAR, DepEd-CAR, and representatives from Local Government Units (LGUs).
Also present were representatives from various Muslim community institutions and organizations, along with other Muslim Leaders based in Baguio City.
This forum aimed to address peace and security concerns, enhance interfaith understanding, and reinforce coordinated efforts toward conflict prevention and sustainable peace in our city.
The program commenced with the registration of participants, followed by the Welcome Address delivered by Atty. Raihanah Sarah T. Macarimpas, Regional Director of NCMF-North Luzon. In her message, she emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, Muslim leaders, and community stakeholders in advancing peace, unity, and mutual understanding.
The first lecture entitled “Who Are the Muslims? Understanding the Beliefs and the Distinction Between Sunni and Shia” was delivered by Sheikh Abdullah Pundogar, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the fundamental beliefs of Islam and clarifying common misconceptions regarding the differences between Sunni and Shia traditions.
This was followed by the lecture “Stand and Scholarly Perspectives on Muslim Solidarity Amid Contemporary Conflicts,” presented by Sheikh Muhamad Ali Ugarinan, who highlighted the importance of unity, compassion, and adherence to Islamic teachings in addressing contemporary issues affecting Muslim communities.
A Prayer Break was observed to allow participants to perform their prayers. After the break, representatives from the participating government agencies, as well as leaders from Muslim community institutions and organizations, were given the opportunity to share their insights and reflections on the topics discussed. This exchange of perspectives enriched the forum and underscored the importance of cooperation between government institutions and Muslim communities in promoting peace and mutual understanding.
The program then proceeded with an open forum, facilitated by Sheikh Ahmad Pundogar, where Islamic scholars further engaged with participants by addressing questions and providing scholarly insights on relevant issues.
Another lecture on the “Significance of Ramadan and Eid’l Fitr” was delivered by Sheikh Jamael Usodan, emphasizing the spiritual importance of the holy month of Ramadan and the values of patience, generosity, discipline, and unity among Muslims.
The successful conduct of the North Luzon Peace Forum served as an important initiative of NCMF in promoting peace, unity, and religious understanding.
Through scholarly discussions, the sharing of insights among participants, and the support of the local government of Baguio City, the activity strengthened partnerships and reaffirmed the collective commitment of government institutions and Muslim community stakeholders toward building peaceful, inclusive, and harmonious communities.
The NCMF-North Luzon Regional Office expressed its sincere gratitude to all participating government agencies, Muslim community institutions, organizations, religious scholars, and community leaders whose active participation contributed to the success of the event.
Special thanks were extended to the City Government of Baguio, headed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong, for their support and recognition of programs that promote peace, unity, and cultural understanding.
The NCMF-North Luzon under the leadership of Macarimpas looks forward to continued collaboration and engagement in future initiatives aimed at strengthening inter-community harmony and cooperation. (/)