Through the initiative of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, and in celebration of the 2025 National Women’s Month, the city government continues its commitment to fostering unity through meaningful conversations. One of the key activities of Mayor Turabin-Hataman is the Interfaith Dialogue Series, which serves as a bridge for diverse faith communities to come together in understanding and solidarity. Now on its second installment, this dialogue centered on the theme “Mercy and Forgiveness”, highlighting their transformative power in healing wounds and strengthening relationships on March 12.
The event commenced with an inspiring message from City Information Officer and Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Mendry Ann Lim, who underscored the significance of mercy and forgiveness in building a more inclusive and harmonious society.“We come from different faith traditions, but the call for mercy and forgiveness is universal. In a world filled with division, these virtues remind us to heal rather than harm, to unite rather than divide,” she expressed.
The gathering brought together esteemed religious leaders, including: Rev. Fr. Ronel Antonio from Sta. Isabel de Portugal Cathedral Parish, Ustadz Abulgais Habibun from Basilan Ulama Supreme Council, Raul Tagarao from Seventh-Day Adventist, and Church, Editha Amantillo from the United Evangelical Church.
Each speaker provided insights from their faith traditions, shedding light on how mercy and forgiveness serve as essential pillars of spiritual and personal growth.
Rev. Fr. Ronel Antonio highlighted how Jesus exemplified mercy and forgiveness, emphasizing that true peace is found in choosing love over vengeance.
Raul Tagarao illustrated the dangers of unforgiveness through the metaphor of drinking poison while expecting the other person to suffer—stressing that resentment only harms the bearer.
Editha Amantillo reflected on how faith empowers believers to extend mercy, reminding everyone that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but an act of strength and love.
Ustadz Habibun spoke on forgiveness as a source of spiritual resilience, stating that “forgiveness is our strength,” and that letting go of grudges enables inner peace and divine reward.
Participants shared personal stories and reflections during the open forum facilitated by Mojahed Cosain, Assistant City Human Resource Management Officer. Many expressed how the dialogue deepened their understanding of forgiveness as a transformative process—one that does not erase past wrongs but allows healing to take place.
In her closing remarks, CSWDO Nor-Aina Asmara encouraged everyone to live out the lessons learned, reminding them that mercy and forgiveness are choices that lead to personal and communal healing. “Let today’s discussion be a reminder that kindness is never wasted, and forgiveness is a gift we give not only to others but also to ourselves,” she said.
With the strong leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, the Interfaith Dialogue Series continues to be a beacon of hope, proving that despite different beliefs, mercy and forgiveness are universal virtues that bind humanity together. (Words by R. Natividad-Sarael/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
