Peace Governance Expands: SGA Municipalities in BARMM Adopt Resolutions Supporting DPCW

A powerful movement for peace is taking root in the southern Philippines. Local governments in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) are successively adopting resolutions to support the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) and Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).

By embedding peace into local policy, these communities are successfully expanding grassroots, community-centered peace governance.

A Growing Chain of Local Resolutions

The momentum has been building rapidly across different municipal governments:

• Municipality of Kapalawan: Officially adopted Resolution No. 40, Series of 2025 on October 27, 2025.
• Municipality of Kadayangan: Passed Municipal Resolution No. 2025-045, Series of 2025 during the 10th Regular Session of the Second Sangguniang Bayan on December 1, 2025.

Through these official measures, both local governments have formally committed to promoting a culture of non-violence, mutual understanding, and cooperation rooted in law, dialogue, and education.

Education at the Core of Sustainable Peace

These legislative victories are the direct result of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on July 31, 2025. The historic agreement paired HWPL with the Schools Division of SGA under the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE-BARMM).

Following the signing, a robust peace education program launched across 116 local schools. This massive educational rollout is being driven by the leadership of Superintendent Edgar Sumapal and championed by Dr. Ali Zumbaga, the Peace Education Focal Person of SGA.

"Peace must be built on law and cooperation. Institutional frameworks and community cooperation are essential to preventing conflict and realizing sustainable peace."
— Dr. Ali Zumbaga, Peace Education Focal Person of SGA

 

United for Harmony

The political willpower driving these changes reflects a deep community desire for long-term stability. Hon. Datu Prince Salman Karon, Chair of the Committee on Education, Culture and Heritage—who sponsored the Kadayangan resolution—stressed the urgency of these initiatives. He noted that strengthening peacebuilding efforts is vital for the harmonious development of the local community.

With members of the Sangguniang Bayan actively backing these measures, the region is proving that lasting peace is best achieved when local government, educators, and citizens collaborate toward a shared vision.

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[HWPL] Peace Is a Responsibility, Not a Slogan: Bimal Deo’s Peace Journey in Lautoka, Fiji

How one individual’s commitment in the South Pacific is transforming local communities into hubs of sustainable peace

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In the vibrant coastal city of Lautoka, Fiji, one dedicated advocate has been quietly planting seeds of harmony that are now blossoming across the community. 

Bimal Deo, Coordinator of Messengers of Peace and Senior Advisory Committee Member of HWPL Global Branch 11 in Fiji, has spent years bridging gaps between government officials, educators, youth advocates, and faith leaders. 

Here is his inspiring story of moving peace from an abstract slogan into an everyday way of life.

​Peace as an Active Duty, Not a Passive Dream

​As a Scout leader and peace advocate, Bimal’s first encounter with HWPL at a Fijian peace summit felt like a natural alignment of purpose. Witnessing HWPL global volunteers bring together diverse groups regardless of culture, religion, or nationality inspired him to step up as a key coordinator in Fiji’s Western Division.

​"HWPL’s sincere efforts to build sustainable peace through education, dialogue, and cooperation became a powerful motivation for me."

​For him, peace was never meant to be a simple slogan—it is an active responsibility that individuals and local communities must practice side by side.

Peace as an Active Duty, Not a Passive Dream

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Painting the Future Through the Eyes of Children

​Among the many initiatives he has championed—including DPCW awareness campaigns and educational outreach—the peace drawing competition holds a special place in his heart.

​"Children are the future ambassadors of peace. Helping them learn and express the values of coexistence from an early age is the most critical foundation for a sustainable world."

​His journey reached a memorable peak when he attended the HWPL World Peace Summit in Korea. Meeting global advocates face-to-face solidified his belief that peace is indeed a universal language that unites humanity beyond borders and cultures.

A Shift in Perspective: Peace as a Way of Life

​A Shift in Perspective: Peace as a Way of Life

​Working alongside HWPL has fundamentally deepened Bimal’s personal philosophy. Where he once viewed peace simply as the "absence of conflict," he now recognizes it as an active "way of life"—one built daily on mutual respect, understanding, justice, and compassion.

​"Peace begins within the individual, then radiates out to families, schools, workplaces, and whole towns. Through small acts of kindness and honest dialogue, we can leave peace as an enduring legacy for the next generation."

Why We Must Walk Together

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Why We Must Walk Together

​At a time when the world faces division and uncertainty, Bimal reminds us that peace cannot be achieved by a select few working in isolation. It requires the collective willpower of ordinary citizens choosing respect and dialogue over misunderstanding.

​His tireless work in Lautoka proves how one person’s unshakeable commitment can inspire an entire region, creating a ripple effect that grows into a powerful wave of global harmony.

​"Peace begins with each one of us. Through kindness, respect, and mutual understanding, we can transform our communities. We are all Messengers of Peace, and We Are One."

From the shores of Fiji to every corner of the globe, the message is clear: peace is alive when we choose to practice it every day. How do you practice peace in your own daily routine? Let us know in the comments below! 

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[IPYG] Protecting People and the Planet: Meeting Iraq’s ‘Together for Human and Environment Association’

[IPYG] An inspiring IPYG affiliate organization building a sustainable and inclusive future beyond borders

In the face of regional conflicts and environmental crises, the true engine of sustainable transformation is always found in the passion of young people. There is an organization in Iraq making waves for its profound impact on peace action and community empowerment. 

Established in 2005, Iraq’s ‘Together for Human and Environment Association’ (The Association) is a non-profit NGO officially registered with both the Federal Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government. Active throughout the nation from its Erbil headquarters and Baghdad branch, this dynamic group has built a powerful solidarity with the IPYG.

​A Systematic Foundation for Iraq's Future Leaders
​The Association does not just operate on goodwill; it values structural transparency and excellence, holding the international standard ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management systems. With a strong nationwide network of over 300 registered members and more than 1,000 active volunteers, its work spans five core pillars:

​Education, Environmental Protection, Health and Sanitation, Youth and Women Empowerment, and Peacebuilding.

​Through interactive online and offline learning hubs and large-scale public awareness campaigns, The Association ensures that children and youth are given the tools to step up as confident social leaders.

Together Association members participating in the 4th YEPC.

​"Youth Are Partners in Shaping Today, Not Just Leaders of Tomorrow"
​The Association’s core slogan—“Investing in youth as future leaders who will drive innovation, peace, and sustainable development in Iraq”—aligns flawlessly with IPYG’s foundational belief that youth must be the active authors of their own peaceful future. 

This shared mindset sparked a natural, rock-solid partnership. Through practical cooperation, the two organizations have co-hosted vibrant cultural exchanges and strengthened their unity through consistent participation in the Youth Empowerment Peace Class (YEPC).

​Furthermore, The Association works hand-in-hand with prominent global organizations such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Oxfam, and Save the Children to maximize their grassroots reach.

Tree-planting program at the Together Association employee workshop.

​Bridging Technology, Climate Resilience, and Civic Action
​The Association’s major ongoing projects show a brilliant integration of modern technology and humanitarian responsibility:

​The ‘Masarouna’ Project: Reaching over 6,000 young people to provide reliable, essential health and wellness information.

​The ‘Thrive Space’ Program: Creating climate-resilient learning environments in schools across Baghdad and Erbil.

​‘Hack4Dev Science Hackathon 2026’: A platform combining science, digital tech, and environmental stewardship, encouraging youth to responsibly leverage AI and explore astronomy to solve real-world climate and humanitarian issues.

Award ceremony for the winning teacher of the Iraq Science Hackathon.

​A Message of Courage from President Saadia Alsalhy
​Marking a historic milestone in their journey of global connection, Ms. Saadia Alsalhy, President of Together for Human and Environment Association, delivered a stirring, direct message to the youth of the world:

​“Today, the world needs young people who lead with knowledge, compassion, creativity, and courage. Youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow; they are partners in shaping today. At Together Association, we believe that protecting people and protecting the planet are one shared mission.

​In this spirit, Together Association is proud to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with IPYG, strengthening cooperation for peace, youth leadership, cultural exchange, and global understanding. 

To the youth of Iraq and the world: let us work together beyond borders and cultures. Our challenges are shared, and our solutions must be shared too. Choose hope over fear, dialogue over division, and action over silence. The future is not something we wait for. It is something we create together.”


"When the footsteps of global youth unite across borders for peace and sustainable development, a safer and more conscious world will truly be realized." The words of The Association remind us that young people are not passive bystanders, but wise innovators of the present. 

Let us support the youth of Iraq and the world as they courageously march 'Together' toward a brilliant, unshakeable tomorrow. What does creating a sustainable future look like in your local neighborhood? Let us know in the comments below!

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[HWPL] From Pieces to Peace: How Zambia is Uniting Through Art and Interfaith Dialogue

A historic gathering at a Lusaka church where Christian choirs, Islamic Nasheed, and a giant shared canvas proved that our differences are what make us whole.

Can people from completely different faiths and backgrounds come together to create a single, unified masterpiece? On April 22, a deeply moving answer unfolded at Hillcrest Baptist Church in Ibex Hill, Lusaka. 

Co-hosted by the HWPL Zambia Branch and the MUZU Arts Collective, the "Art & Peace Talk Zambia" event brought together religious leaders, passionate youth, and local community members. 

Aligning beautifully with President Hakainde Hichilema's “Brand Zambia Initiative”—which champions national unity and social cohesion—this unique program showed how individual, scattered "pieces" can genuinely connect to form a beautiful, lasting "peace."

One Canvas, a Hundred Voices: The Collective Peace Artwork

​Long before the opening remarks echoed through the hall, the atmosphere was already buzzing with collaborative energy. Right in the lobby, a massive, blank canvas stood waiting for the arrivals. One by one, attendees picked up brushes and filled the empty spaces with their own visual definitions of harmony.

​Watching separate brushstrokes and contrasting colors slowly bleed into a cohesive, breathtaking mural was a living metaphor for peacebuilding. Alongside this community canvas, professional displays by the MUZU Arts Collective lined the walls, grounding the venue in a visual language that bypassed words entirely.

​When a Church Choir and Islam Nasheed Share the Same Stage

​Perhaps the most unforgettable highlight of the event was the sacred music session. In a beautiful display of interfaith harmony, the soaring melodies of a Christian choir were followed immediately by the rhythmic, soulful verses of an Islamic nasheed—all under the roof of the same Baptist sanctuary.

​"Peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of solidarity, dialogue, and mutual respect. Art as a profound tool that transcends language, connecting human hearts in the ultimate pursuit of building peace." — From the HWPL Opening Address

​The beliefs and modes of expression differed, but the underlying heartbeat was identical. It wasn't just a performance; it was a profound, demonstration of harmony that left everyone in the room deeply moved.

"What is the Key Connection That Enables Us to Become One?"
The emotional high of the music set a perfect stage for the interfaith dialogue panel, where leaders from Christianity, Islam, the Baha'i Faith, and Hinduism dove straight into the core mechanics of human connection.

Sheikh Yussuf Ayami (Islam, Team Leader of FDI): "Universal values ​​​​like respect, compassion, and justice—all rooted in our shared humanity—are the golden threads that naturally connect us."

​Swami Divyabodhananda (Hinduism, Representative of Ramakrishna Vedanta Center): "True unity doesn't require us to be identical. It arises when we look past cultural and religious differences to recognize a deeper, spiritual oneness."

Peace: The Ultimate Determinant of Community Health
The dialogue quickly expanded to include local civic leaders and the younger generation. Mr. Victor Kagoli, Director of the Public Health Department for the Lusaka City Council, brought a fascinating and grounded civic perspective to the table, connecting social harmony directly to physical well-being.

"Communities that are united, inclusive, and respectfully are inherently healthier and more resilient. Peace isn't just a social ideal; it is a vital determinant of public health."

​Moving From Fragments to Wholeness

​Since 2017, HWPL has quietly and laid the groundwork for religious cooperation in Zambia through its World Alliance of Religions' Peace Offices. This event, however, marked a refreshing new chapter—injecting the vibrant energy of fine art and music into grassroots peacebuilding.

​By showing that individual fragments (pieces) can beautifully interlock into a grand design (peace), the youth and leaders of Lusaka have offered a powerful blueprint for the rest of the world.

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[HWPL] Beyond the Pain of Civil War to Lasting Peace: South Sudan’s Parliament Officially Adopts DPCW Resolution

[HWPL] Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches unite—a decade-long journey marks a historic turning point for South Sudan

Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has been a nation caught in the painful cycle of civil conflict. For citizens weary of watching numerous peace agreements collapse, a powerful beacon of hope has finally emerged from the capital city of Juba.

The Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) has officially adopted Resolution No. 29/2025 in support of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). With this milestone, South Sudan has become a premier global example of a nation where all three branches of government—executive, judiciary, and legislature—have fully embraced the DPCW as an official framework for national harmony.
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A New Tomorrow Built on a Legal Foundation

​The adoption of this resolution is far more than a completed legal procedure; it is the fruit of a deep-seated yearning among South Sudanese leaders and citizens to break the shackles of division.

​Reflecting the core values of the DPCW’s 10 Articles and 38 Clauses, the resolution outlines concrete, actionable mandates for the country’s future:

​International Support for the DPCW: Formally recognizing the DPCW as a vital international framework for the cessation of war and supporting its adoption as an official United Nations General Assembly resolution.

​Peace-focused Resource Reallocation: Recommending that military resources and public funds be shifted toward human rights, education, and healthcare to promote sustainable development.

​Institutionalizing a Culture of Peace: Integrating peace and human rights education into public school curricula and policy, while providing structural support for youth-led programs like the YEPW and YEPC.

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​Peace Convictions Born out of Refugee Life

​At the very heart of this historic milestone were two South Sudanese leaders who transformed their personal experiences of wartime suffering into a driving force for peace: Former Speaker of Parliament Jemma Nunu Kumba and Hon. Bona Deng Lawrence, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Peace and Reconciliation.

​For Jemma Nunu Kumba, peace is a value directly tied to survival. When civil war tore the region apart in 1991, she was among the hundreds of thousands forced to flee across the border into exile. During those difficult years, she held onto a single, overriding desire: to return home and live alongside her people.

​"Life in exile is never a good experience. Leaving your country is like losing a part of your soul. I simply wanted to live in my homeland together with my people."

​Upon returning and eventually leading the Parliament, Kumba saw the DPCW not as a mere document, but as a practical blueprint for survival. Having seen previous treaties crumble, she realized that the DPCW offers a tangible framework through which a country can voluntarily develop its own laws and public policies to safeguard its people.

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"The DPCW is a Vital Tool to Complement Government Efforts"

​Speaking during an interview at the HWPL September 18 World Peace Summit commemoration, Former Speaker Kumba stressed the urgency of the DPCW in light of South Sudan's current challenges:

​"The war has displaced a vast number of people who now urgently need resettlement. Furthermore, the ongoing conflict in a neighboring country has adversely affected our economy, creating additional obstacles to the implementation of the peace agreement. Government resources alone are insufficient. Now, the DPCW is an important tool for us, which can be used to complement the efforts of the government."

​Hon. Bona Deng Lawrence shared that the resolution brought an immense sense of relief and reassurance to a public that felt the 2018 peace process had stagnated. When the Parliament demonstrated its commitment by passing the resolution, the overwhelming joy of the citizens put their deep love for peace on full display.

​Moving Beyond Memories, Taking Action for Change

​One leader was shaped by the harsh realities of refugee life; the other was driven by a profound mission inherited from his father. Though their journeys began at different starting points, both leaders have proven a timeless truth: peace is not a passive gift, but a deliberate choice that must be actively pursued.

​By institutionalizing the DPCW, South Sudan is signaling to the world that it is moving past the trauma of its history and stepping into an era of self-sustained peace.

South Sudan’s achievement in uniting its executive, judicial, and legislative branches behind a legal framework for peace sends a powerful wave of hope to conflict zones worldwide. It reminds us that lasting security is built not by weapons, but by a shared commitment to structural respect and human rights. Let us join hands to support and cheer on the people of South Sudan as they nurture this hard-won peace into a bright, sustainable future. What does active peacebuilding look like to you? Share your thoughts below! 

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[HWPL] Can simple respect stop a border conflict? How Cambodian youth are answering the call for peace in Phnom Penh

[HWPL] Inside the 2026 HWPL Youth Camp, where religious leaders and students are moving past grand ideologies to build peace through everyday empathy

With recent, heavy tensions stretching along the border between Cambodia and Thailand, it’s easy to feel like peace is something completely out of our hands. When nations clash, what can everyday people actually do?

On February 21, a rather remarkable gathering at Asia Euro University in Phnom Penh provided an answer. Bringing together over 100 religious leaders, students, and educators, the "2026 HWPL Cambodia Religious Youth Peace Camp" proved that the real antidote to division isn't politics—it's a conscious choice to listen.


The 'Sampeah' perspective: Peace in a simple greeting

​Conflict rarely starts from a vacuum; it grows when communication breaks down, leaving room for ignorance and fear. Venerable Hong Veasnar of Wat Nuon Mony Ram Temple brought this home during the camp by pointing to "Sampeah," the traditional Cambodian greeting of bowing with hands pressed together.

​"Peace doesn’t begin with grand, complicated ideologies. It starts with simple, everyday respect in our daily lives. Fear and conflict happen when we lack understanding of one another, but compassion and mercy are universal values that belong to all of us, no matter our religion."

​If a basic greeting carries the core of peace, then changing how we treat the person standing right in front of us is where real change begins.

Teaching kids how to listen, not just resolve
​The talk from the education sector was equally grounding. Chhom Sopheak, the principal of Prek Leap High School, shared a refreshing take on what it actually means to educate the next generation.

​"True peace education is a process of cultivating attitudes of listening, empathy, inclusion, and gratitude. It’s about helping students develop the ability to resolve conflicts on their own—that is what real peace education is."

Moving past the textbook, his school is taking immediate action by setting up a dedicated "Peace Club" right on campus.

The goal is simple: give students a physical space to practice tolerance and navigate disagreements constructively before they turn into deeper divisions.

Moving past theory: Real dialogue and youth action

​The event steered clear of being just a series of long lectures. During a mini talk show titled “Religion and Peace,” participants sat down in groups to talk through difficult topics with mutual respect. To close the session, every single group had to distill their conversation into a single, actionable “One Sentence for Peace,” turning theoretical ideas into immediate, shared goals.


​The second half of the camp shifted the spotlight directly onto the younger generation. Khean Ravyvuthika, president of the Rotaract Club of Phnom Penh Metro, reminded everyone that youth cannot afford to be passive onlookers:

​"For sustainable peace, the proactive role of youth is essential. Education must equip young people with the capacity to act for social harmony."


​To put those words into focus, the youth tested their knowledge on global harmony through a lively "Peace Golden Bell" quiz, and collectively read the "Religious Youth Peace Solidarity Pledge"—a formal commitment to choose understanding over division in their respective communities.

​A long-term commitment to stability

​The day wrapped up with a video showcasing HWPL’s ongoing grassroots work throughout Cambodia, followed by a live musical performance by a group of visiting Korean students. Watching youth from different cultures connect through music was a perfect reflection of the day's message.

​This camp forms part of a larger, structured blueprint by HWPL’s International Religious Peace Academy (IRPA) and the IPYG’s Youth Empowerment Peace Class (YEPC). It isn't a one-off seminar; it’s an ongoing, deliberate effort to unite religious figures, teachers, and young people into a steady network that builds long-term stability across Cambodian society.

Even when border disputes dominate the headlines, seeing an auditorium filled with people actively choosing empathy over fear reminds us where true security comes from. It isn't built by weapons, but by an everyday commitment to look at our neighbors with respect. What does a small act of peace look like in your community today? Let’s talk about it in the comments below

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[IPYG] We are not just the future. An interview with JCI Jamaica’s Marklon Bedward on changing the world right now.

[IPYG] We are not just the future. An interview with JCI Jamaica’s Marklon Bedward on changing the world right now

How much can one small action from a young person actually change a neighborhood? It’s a question a lot of us ask when looking at the world today. To find out, we caught up with Marklon Bedward, the 2026 National President of Junior Chamber International Jamaica (JCI Jamaica). His team has been driving youth leadership for over six decades, and this year, under the theme “Evolve and Connect,” they are taking things a step further. Here is what he shared about real community survival, breaking boundaries, and why peace isn't as far off as we think.

​Moving past theory: A 65-year legacy of doing the work
​Since its start in 1961, JCI Jamaica has grown into a community of about 140 members across five local chapters. But they aren't interested in just sitting in classrooms talking about change.

​“JCI is not just a place to learn theory,” Marklon says. “It’s a place where lives and communities are transformed through practical experience.”

​One of the most interesting parts of how they work is a rule called “One Year to Lead.” Instead of keeping the same people in power, JCI passes new responsibilities to different young members every single year. It keeps the energy fresh and gives everyone a real chance to step up.

​Mangroves, expos, and real recovery
​This year, their focus is split between healing the environment and building up local skills under a simple slogan: “Evolve Your Power: Empower Your Community, Connect with the World.”

​Instead of broad, vague goals, they are focusing on three very specific needs right now:
​Rebuilding after Hurricane Melissa: Planting mangrove trees to restore the coastlines that protect the island.
​The Autism Awareness Expo: Creating a space for inclusion and supporting families who feel overlooked.
​JCI Elite Academy: Training young people in business strategy, debate, and leadership so they have real tools for the future.

​“Our core goal this year is to support communities in recovery while also strengthening the practical skills of young people,” Marklon explains.

​The IPYG partnership: Lowering crime through trust

​What makes their current push even stronger is their three-year partnership with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG). This collaboration has moved far beyond simple events. From organizing regional Peace Walks across the Caribbean to sponsoring the Jamaica Peace Cup, the focus has shifted toward building lasting trust.

​According to Marklon, the results are showing up in the community where it matters most:
​“It goes beyond simple events, serving as a bridge that fosters harmony among vulnerable community members, the police, and NGOs. Building such relationships of trust has contributed to meaningful social outcomes, including efforts to reduce crime within the community.”

​"Never underestimate your smallest action"
​When asked what he wanted to say to other young people watching from different corners of the world, Marklon didn't hesitate. His message was a direct call to step out of fear.

​“I encourage you to move forward without fear for yourselves and for future generations. We are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also the driving force changing the world today.

​Never underestimate the power of even your smallest action. That small action will one day bear great fruit. I believe that the peace we seek can surely be achieved. If we truly desire a peaceful world, we as leaders must hold firmly to the conviction that we must expand cooperation and move forward together.”

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the headlines, but seeing a group of young people physically lowering crime rates and planting trees reminds us that change is just a series of small, intentional choices. JCI Jamaica and IPYG are proving that we don’t have to wait for the future to be the leaders our communities need. What’s one small thing you can do in your neighborhood today? Let's talk about it in the comments below.

​Learn more about these global youth movements on the official website:

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