Leaders and volunteers from the Adventist Church in Southern Mindanao (SMM) participated in the Moving-Up Ceremony of Madrasato Tarbita Al-Islamia, an Arabic school serving the Muslim community of Barangay Lapu, Polomolok, South Cotabato, Philippines, highlighting ongoing efforts to build constructive relationships across faith communities.
The gathering was attended by representatives from the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM), including Pastor Jonathan Hemoroz, director for Adventist–Muslim Relations. Over the years, the Adventist Church has partnered with several madrasahs in the area through community-based initiatives such as the distribution of school supplies, construction of restrooms, feeding programs, roof repairs, and other forms of educational support requested by local leaders.
Local officials and community members joined the ceremony, including Barangay Lapu Punong Barangay Fahodey K. Nilong. Barangay Lapu, where approximately 80 percent of residents identify as Muslim, welcomed the participation of faith-based partners as part of shared efforts to support education and community well-being.
Also present were Victor Turpaud, also known as Abdul Zafaar, and his wife, Kim, visitors from Colorado who have been involved in humanitarian support for Islamic schools in Mindanao. Turpaud said his engagement with madrasahs is rooted in his commitment to respect and cultural understanding. He expressed appreciation for collaboration with local groups working toward similar goals in education and service.
The program also included representatives from Worldwide Involvement in New Global Strategies Inc. (WINGS), coordinated by Ustadz Abdul Mutilan and Ustadzah Leah. Through partnerships with Muslim educators and community leaders across Southern Mindanao, these collaborations have helped facilitate dialogue and coordinated service initiatives among madrasah teachers, known as ustadz and ustadzah.
One of the school’s instructors, Ustadz Abdul Mojeedd U. Usman, expressed gratitude for the support extended to the school, which serves more than 50 learners. He noted that assistance provided through partnerships has helped address practical needs and affirmed the value of cooperation among people of different backgrounds.
Beyond Madrasato Tarbita Al-Islamia, Adventist representatives are scheduled to attend moving-up ceremonies at six additional madrasahs in Polomolok, as well as schools in Malita, Davao Occidental, and Sarangani Province. These schools have been part of community support initiatives coordinated through the Adventist–Muslim Relations program over the past two years.
Madrasahs provide instruction in classical Arabic, Qur’anic studies, and Islamic teachings, with an emphasis on moral development and daily practice. Community leaders view education as a shared responsibility that benefits families and society at large.
Adventist leaders emphasized that their involvement reflects a commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and service to communities, regardless of religious affiliation. Church representatives stated that relationship-building initiatives are guided by principles of respect, compassion, and cooperation, recognizing the dignity and shared humanity of all people.