Held at the Grand Hall of World Palace Hotel in Ecoland, the congress carried the theme, “Sustaining Balik Islam Communities: Strengthening Faith, Nurturing Peace, and Building Resilient Communities.”
The gathering provided a venue for Balik Islam members to discuss their community’s history, ongoing initiatives, and challenges, while identifying possible solutions to concerns affecting their respective communities.
Participants also attended discussions and workshops on Davao City’s Culture of Security and Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE), emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence, social inclusion, and shared responsibility in maintaining peace and security.
Task Force Davao Commander Colonel Rodrigo Marinas Jr. said the congress aims to strengthen the organization of Balik Islam communities, provide members with updates on security matters, and give them an opportunity to raise concerns they encounter in their respective communities.
Marinas said the issues raised during the activity would be submitted to the local government unit (LGU) for appropriate attention and action.
Meanwhile, Deputy Pamnikeren Latip Arumpac Jr., chairman of the Davao City Muslim Affairs Office, said the Balik Islam community would have sectoral representatives in the office to ensure that their concerns and interests are represented. BuyMaps
The program also underscored the role of faith in promoting peace, nation-building, and inclusivity. Participants presented their workshop outputs and recommendations aimed at strengthening community ties and building more resilient communities.
Narina Romanda, administrative officer of the Public Safety and Security Office, delivered the message of Davao City Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte.
The congress was facilitated by Kenny Lloyd L. Angon, assistant director of the Al Qalam Institute for Islamic Identities and Dialogue in Southeast Asia of Ateneo de Davao University, with support from Davao Muslim Youth Leaders through their Project NEXT.
Task Force Davao said the initiative highlights the importance of collaboration among the Balik Islam community, the local government, security forces, religious leaders, and partner institutions in promoting social cohesion, preventing violent extremism, and sustaining peace in Davao City.