Mindanao Peacebuilder Cardinal Quevedo Receives Inaugural Regional Harmony Award in Jakarta

Cardinal Orlando Beltran Quevedo, O.M.I., a peace advocate from Mindanao, Philippines, has been formally presented with the inaugural Harmony in Diversity Award. The regional award, initiated by Temasek Foundation in collaboration with 5P Global Movement as its secretariat, was conferred in Jakarta on Wednesday (15/7/2026). The award honours the Archbishop Emeritus of Cotabato’s extraordinary dedication over more than five decades to fostering interfaith dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusive peacebuilding among Christian, Muslim, and indigenous communities in Mindanao. Patron of the award, Madam Halimah Yacob, opened the ceremony by stressing the conscious effort required by each generation to nurture tolerance. The former President of Singapore reflected on her visit to the ‘Terowongan Silaturahmi’ (Tunnel of Friendship) connecting Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral, describing it as a tangible symbol that harmony is built through deliberate choices to reach out, listen, respect, and build relationships amidst differences. She affirmed that Southeast Asia’s long history proves diversity is a source of strength when communities choose mutual understanding over division. Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs welcomed the regional initiative, noting that the award not only appreciates individual achievement but also reaffirms the humanitarian values that bind Southeast Asian communities together. He expressed hope that Cardinal Quevedo’s work in Mindanao would inspire more communities across ASEAN to strengthen dialogue and mutual understanding. Temasek Foundation’s Executive Director and CEO, Ng Boon Heong, expressed hope that the award would evolve into a sustainable regional platform to support community bridge-builders across Southeast Asia. He likened shared humanity to a bridge connecting the region’s diverse faiths and cultures. Founder of 5P Global Movement, M. Arsjad Rasjid P.M., added that the award also honours the millions across Southeast Asia who quietly strengthen mutual trust in their communities through simple daily actions. In his acceptance speech, Cardinal Quevedo dedicated the award to peace activists and the people of Mindanao. He emphasised that his philosophy of ‘Dialogue of Life’ proves that true harmony grows from simple interactions and relationships woven into the daily lives of people of different faiths. The inaugural award garnered high enthusiasm across Southeast Asia, attracting over 70 nominations from various countries in the region. Organisers are optimistic this growing network will accelerate the creation of robust peace within ASEAN.