A diverse coalition of interfaith leaders, local government officials, and Indigenous community representatives gathered in Davao City, Philippines, on March 25, 2026, for a forum focused on religious freedom and peacebuilding. The event, titled “Family and Peacebuilding: A Religious Freedom Forum,” took place during the open-house period of the Davao Philippines Temple.
Promoting Peace in Mindanao
The forum emphasized the critical roles of interfaith cooperation, religious freedom, and strong family units in sustaining peace across Mindanao. As the southernmost major island in the Philippines, Mindanao is characterized by a culturally diverse population, including large Christian and Muslim communities alongside various Indigenous groups.
The gathering was co-organized by the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy, Religions for Peace Philippines, and the International Center for Law and Religion Studies at Brigham Young University. Participants discussed how dialogue and respect across cultural and religious lines serve as foundations for regional stability.
The Role of Family in Global Stability
Elder Erich W. Kopischke, a General Authority Seventy and assistant executive director in the Temple Department, delivered the keynote message. He asserted that peacebuilding begins within the family, noting that people of faith often share more commonalities than differences.
Elder Kopischke taught that the obligation to love and respect one another is essential for achieving peace in the home, the community, and the wider world. He highlighted that families teach core values such as forgiveness, understanding, and respect, which are vital for building peaceful communities.
Temple Open House and Dedication
Following the forum, attendees toured the Davao Philippines Temple, which Elder Kopischke described as a sacred symbol of “light and peace.” Earlier, on March 23, Elder Kopischke too led invited guests and media representatives through the facility for its official media day.
The temple is scheduled for dedication on Sunday, May 3, 2026, with Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles presiding. Once dedicated, the facility will be the fifth operating temple in the Philippines and will serve members throughout the Mindanao region.
Looking Forward
The successful conclusion of the open house and the upcoming dedication may further strengthen the Church’s presence in the region. This increased visibility could lead to expanded interfaith partnerships and a continued emphasis on religious freedom within Mindanao.
The operation of the novel temple is likely to provide a permanent center for Latter-day Saints in the southern Philippines, potentially fostering deeper community ties through ongoing peacebuilding initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the keynote speakers and leaders present at the forum?
The keynote speaker was Elder Erich W. Kopischke. He was joined by his wife, Sister Christiane Kopischke, as well as Elder Carlos G. Revillo Jr., the Philippines Area President of the Church, and his wife, Sister Marie Revillo.
Which organizations organized the religious freedom forum?
The forum was organized by the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy, Religions for Peace Philippines, and Brigham Young University’s International Center for Law and Religion Studies.
What is the significance of the Davao Philippines Temple upon its dedication?
Once dedicated on May 3, 2026, the Davao temple will grow the fifth operating temple in the Philippines and will serve Latter-day Saints throughout the region of Mindanao.
How do you believe interfaith cooperation impacts the stability of culturally diverse regions?
Keep reading