Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), a UN ECOSOC–affiliated international peace organization, in partnership with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos–National Capital Region (NCMF-NCR), invites the youth, media, civic groups, and various sectors of society to commemorate the 12th Anniversary of the January 24th HWPL Peace Day at the GSIS Theater in Pasay City, Metro Manila.
Guided by this year’s theme, “Youth Rise Up for Peace and Unity through Interfaith Dialogue!”, the celebration places special emphasis on empowering young people as key agents of peace. The event will recognize and honor youth leaders actively engaged in interfaith dialogue and peace initiatives, underscoring their vital role in fostering unity, mutual respect, and lasting harmony among diverse communities and institutions.
Since its establishment in 2013, HWPL has remained steadfast in its mission to achieve sustainable world peace and the cessation of war through three core peace initiatives: the enactment of an international law for peace, the alliance of religions to promote interfaith harmony, and the integration of peace education. These pillars have guided every January 24 HWPL Peace Day celebration over the past twelve years, providing a global platform for dialogue, cooperation, and collective action toward peace.
Every HWPL Peace Day brings together leaders and representatives from government, education, civil society, interfaith communities, youth organizations, and the media to cultivate mutual understanding, bridge differences, and reaffirm a shared responsibility for peace in the Philippines and around the world.
HWPL Chairman Lee Man-hee has played a pivotal role in advancing global peace efforts, having visited the Philippines twelve times. His contributions were especially significant in Mindanao, notably through the January 24, 2014 Mindanao Peace Agreement between then-Governor Esmael Mangudadatu and the late Archbishop Fernando Capalla. This milestone marked the beginning of the widespread implementation of HWPL’s peace initiatives across Mindanao and eventually nationwide.
In January 2015, January 24 was officially declared HWPL Peace Day by the Province of Maguindanao, and the first HWPL Peace Monument was established in Buluan, Maguindanao. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), under the leadership of Chairman Al-Haj Murad Ebrahim, later established the second HWPL Peace Monument in Camp Darapanan and reaffirmed January 24 as HWPL Peace Day, solidifying its significance within the global peace community.
The event coincides with the UN International Day of Education, highlighting the vital role of education in promoting peace and sustainable development. The 12th Anniversary of HWPL Peace Day aims to continue this legacy by inspiring collective action, strengthening interfaith cooperation, and empowering youth to rise as leaders for peace and unity.
