Mindanao Peace Figure Receives Southeast Asia Harmony Award

Amidst increasingly diverse and interconnected Southeast Asian societies, efforts to strengthen social cohesion through dialogue, tolerance, and cross-community cooperation are considered a crucial foundation for maintaining sustainable peace. Various initiatives promoting harmony amidst differences continue to receive regional attention and appreciation. One such form of recognition is the Harmony in Diversity Award, an honour for individuals in Southeast Asia who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to building social harmony and strengthening relations between communities of different cultural and religious backgrounds. In its inaugural edition, the award was presented to Archbishop Emeritus of Cotabato, Cardinal Orlando Beltran Quevedo. The award, presented by Temasek Foundation with the 5P Global Movement as the supporting secretariat, highlights Cardinal Quevedo’s long-standing contribution to promoting dialogue and peace in Mindanao, Philippines. As the first cardinal from Mindanao, Quevedo is widely known as a figure who consistently champions interfaith dialogue as a way to build trust and overcome social divisions. He believes that relationships forged through daily interactions among people of different faiths form a crucial basis for creating sustainable peace. During his service, Cardinal Quevedo also actively encouraged conflict resolution through social and political approaches emphasising justice, respect for indigenous peoples’ rights, and addressing various historical injustices in the region. In 1996, he co-founded the Bishops-Ulama Conference, a forum bringing together Catholic, Protestant, and Muslim leaders in a platform for interfaith dialogue and cooperation. He was also involved in various peace policy advocacy efforts, including supporting the creation of the Bangsamoro Basic Law to strengthen the protection of fundamental community rights. The Harmony in Diversity Award was first launched in August 2025 with the aim of broadening understanding of the importance of social harmony, strengthening the impact of change-makers at the community level, and building a regional network committed to creating peaceful and inclusive societies. This year, the award received over 70 nominations from various Southeast Asian countries, reflecting the significant attention given to efforts to strengthen social cohesion through community leadership, dialogue, and cross-sector collaboration. Patron of the Harmony in Diversity Award and former President of Singapore, Halimah Yacob, said the award exists to appreciate individuals who choose to build bridges amidst differences and strengthen societal unity. “Cardinal Quevedo embodies that spirit through his decades-long dedication to building peace and strengthening inter-community relations in Mindanao,” Halimah stated. Meanwhile, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Temasek Foundation, Ng Boon Heong, said Cardinal Quevedo’s work serves as a reminder that harmony is not created instantly, but is built through long-term commitment, patience, and sustained effort. Founder of the 5P Global Movement, Arsjad Rasjid, added that the award aims to celebrate individuals who demonstrate that sustainable peace is born from mutual trust, respect, and the courage to bridge differences. “Cardinal Quevedo’s work also reflects the spirit of diversity that becomes a strength in building a more inclusive society,” Arsjad said. Cardinal Quevedo himself said he was honoured to receive the award. He emphasised that harmony does not mean eliminating differences, but rather a willingness to accept and respect diversity with empathy and understanding. According to him, lasting peace grows from everyday relationships built through dialogue, respect, and compassion among individuals from various backgrounds. The Harmony in Diversity Award will be officially presented at a ceremony in Jakarta on 15 July 2026. In addition to the award trophy, Cardinal Quevedo will receive a prize of 20,000 US dollars and the opportunity to share his experiences with leaders, peace activists, and stakeholders from various Southeast Asian countries.