THE Municipal Government of Margosatubig, Zamboanga del Sur, together with the 53rd Infantry Battalion (IB) and Margosatubig police, initiated the conduct of Peace Building Forum and Islamic Symposium to empower the tri-people of the town.

Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, 53IB commander, said the symposium, held December 26, is also aimed to strengthen the relationship between and among the tri-people as a vehicle for conflict resolution.

Anchored on winning and achieving sustainable peace, the symposium focused on the proactive involvement of the tri-people in conflict resolution, preventing and countering violent extremism, and peace building and peace sustainment.

"Whatever infrastructures, roads and other projects gave by the government, if terrorism and other conflict reign in our community, it will be hard for us to be developed," Governor Victor Yu said during the activity.

Major Mujib Ladjabuan, chaplain of the Army's 1st Infantry Division, lectured and espoused during the peace building forum what it is to be a Muslim -- the foundation of which is anchored on pleasing and yearning for the love of Allah.

Vice Chairman for Da'Wah and Masjid Affairs of Bandar Kutawato Uztads Ismael Ibrahim also taught about the true meaning of Jihad contrary to what the mainstream people perceive as 'holy war.

Ibrahim also taught about the five pillars of Islam during the activity. (SunStar Zamboanga)