DESPITE being home to numerous faiths, traditions, and beliefs, the Philippines has yet to eradicate violence rooted in religious intolerance.
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) made this observation yesterday as it urged Filipinos to stand united against all forms of hatred and to uphold “respect for diversity as a cornerstone of true democracy.”
“The Philippines, despite being home to a rich tapestry of faith traditions and belief systems, has not been immune to incidents of violence rooted in religious intolerance. These incidents bring not only immediate pain and suffering, but also leave enduring scars on communities,” it noted.
Likewise, the Commission stressed that it is the duty of the government “to promote and protect the right of every Filipino to freely exercise their religion or belief.”
In performing the same duty, the government may enforce regulations to protect the rights of others and to uphold public welfare, especially in instances when beliefs are translated into acts that inflict harm on others.
“In a democratic society, we must ensure that the diversity of beliefs is not only safeguarded, but also actively celebrated. Freedom of religion and belief, therefore, does not extend to justifying violence, discrimination, or practices that endanger the safety and dignity of others,” the CHR said.
The CHR released the statement as part of the observance of the International Day of Commemoration of Acts of Violence Based on Religion and Belief.
It said the occasion is a reminder that freedom of thought, conscience, and religion is “a fundamental and inherent human right.”
“Violence and persecution, therefore, have no place in a just and humane society. Religious and belief-based violence not only endangers individuals but also divides communities and erodes social cohesion. It fuels cycles of fear and mistrust, eroding the very foundations of peace and human dignity,” the commission added.
To promote trust and better understanding between religious groups in the country, the CHR underscored the importance of interfaith dialogues in cultivating tolerance.
It said protecting the freedom of religion or belief means ensuring that no one is excluded, discriminated against, or harmed because of their convictions or the faith they practice.
In Congress, a bill proposing a Magna Carta on Religious Freedom Act received wide support among lawmakers but failed to be enacted into law and was eventually withdrawn.
The bill had sought to prohibit any encroachment on the exercise of religious beliefs, whether by the government or any person or group.
