The City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, successfully hosted another session of the Interfaith Dialogue Series on March 19 at JB Dans Hall. Organized through the Gender and Development (GAD) Unit and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), this session centered on the theme “Women of the Holy Scriptures.” It highlighted the roles of women in religious texts and their profound influence on faith, history, and society.
City Information Officer and GAD Focal Mendry Ann Lim formally opened the event, emphasizing the importance of gender inclusivity in religious and community discourse.
This was followed by an inspirational message from Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, who underscored the indispensable role of women in faith traditions. She highlighted their enduring contributions to moral and spiritual development and stressed the importance of interfaith dialogue in fostering peace and mutual respect among different religious communities.
The session featured esteemed speakers from various faith traditions, each offering unique insights into how women in sacred texts embody wisdom, strength, and compassion:
Sr. Ma. Valentina Rebollos, OP – Project Manager of IDP Solidaridad Foundation. Discussed the representation of women in the Holy Bible and their significance in Christian teachings.
Dr. Nujum Datu Indal – City Madaris Development Officer. She spoke about Mother Mary and the role of women in Islam, emphasizing their virtues and influence.
Barbette Tabenas-Baclay – Seventh-Day Adventist Church. Shared insights on the biblical figure Dorcas and her role in spiritual narratives.
Fernand Hadraque – Balik Islam, examined historical perspectives on women in Islam and their evolving roles over time.
Their discussions illuminated the shared values of faith, resilience, and justice across religious traditions, emphasizing how stories of women in sacred texts continue to inspire communities in their pursuit of peace, equality, and spiritual growth.
Before the Open Forum, participants revisited key themes from earlier sessions of the Interfaith Dialogue Series:
March 6,– “Virtues and Modesty”
Speakers: Fr. Franklyn Floyd Costan, Barbette Tabenas-Baclay, Sitti Rahma Sahibil, and Fahma Ismael
Focus: The moral significance of modesty and virtues across different religious beliefs.
March 12, “Mercy and Forgiveness”
Speakers: Fr. Ronel Antonio, Edith Amantillo, Abulgais Habibun, and Raul Tagarao. Focus: How mercy fosters reconciliation and strengthens communal harmony.These discussions have played a crucial role in deepening interfaith understanding and bringing diverse communities together in shared reflection and respect.
The Open Forum provided a platform for participants to engage in a meaningful exchange of ideas, sharing insights and asking thought-provoking questions.
To conclude the session, Mojahed Cosain, Assistant CHRMO, led a brief moment of reflection, encouraging attendees to internalize the lessons learned.
In her closing message, Mendry Ann Lim expressed gratitude to the speakers, participants, and organizers for their commitment to interfaith dialogue. She emphasized the need to continue fostering respect and understanding among faith communities.
As the Interfaith Dialogue Series progresses, the City Government of Isabela remains dedicated to strengthening unity through open conversations and shared values. These efforts ensure that faith serves as a bridge rather than a barrier in an increasingly diverse society.
