UNDERSTANDING ISLAM AND MUSLIM IDENTITY-BUILDING BRIDGES FOR PEACE AND COUNTERING MISCONCEPTIONS IN PCVE.pdf

This presentation highlights Islam as a faith of peace and compassion, clarifying misconceptions that fuel prejudice and extremism. It underscores the vital role of education, dialogue, and cultural understanding in promoting harmony and preventing violent extremism.

By Director Cosanie Mortaba Derogongan (DSC), MPA
Director IV, NCMF | Head, Religious Leaders Cluster, NAP-PCVE

1. UNDERSTANDING ISLAM AND MUSLIM FILIPINO
IDENTITY- BUILDING BRIDGES FOR PEACE AND
COUNTERING MISCONCEPTIONS IN PCVE
Subject Matter Expert
COSANIE MORTABA DEROGONGAN (DSC) MPA
Director IV National Commission Muslim on Filipinos
Bureau of Peace and Conflict Resolution
Head, Religious Leaders Cluster NAP PCVE
PNP Salam PCVE Program October 21, 2025 Mindoro Occidental Police
Provincial Police Office, Province of Mindoro Occidental, MIMAROPA

2. Sequence of the Subject
Introduction
Historical and Cultural Background
Core Muslim Filipino Practices and Values
Misunderstandings and Stereotypes
Building Bridges of Respect and Peace
Conclusion

3. Objectives of the Lecture
Enhance awareness of Muslim Filipino traditions and
values.
Promote mutual respect and interfaith harmony.
Identify practical ways to build bridges of peace among
diverse communities.

4. Historical and Cultural
Background

5. What is Islam?
Islam means “submission to the will of Allah.”
It is a faith that teaches peace, obedience,
and devotion to one God (Allah) through acts
of worship, good deeds, and compassion
toward others.
“Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is
Islam.”— Surah Āl-‘Imrān (3:19)

6. Who are Muslim
“A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and
hand other people are safe.”
— Prophet Muhammad
ﷺ
(Sahih al-Bukhari,
Hadith 10; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 40)
“O you who have believed, fear Allah as He
should be feared and do not die except as
Muslims [in submission to Him].”
— Surah Āl-‘Imrān (3:102)

7. The Arrival of Islam in the Philippines
Introduction of Islam through Arab and Malay traders in the 13th
century.
The establishment of early Sultanates (Sulu, Maguindanao, Lanao).
Legacy of the Sultanate System
Governance, social order, and moral values based on Islam.
The Sultanate’s role in peacekeeping and community
welfare.
Contribution of Muslim Filipinos to Nationhood
Early resistance against colonization.
Preservation of cultural identity and faith.

8. The Arrival of Islam in the Philippines
Tuan Mashaika (circa 13th century)
Arrival: Around the 1200s (13th century) in Sulu.
Significance: Considered the earliest known Muslim missionary to
reach the Sulu Archipelago. He married into the local community and
began spreading the teachings of Islam through peaceful means, trade,
and example. His arrival marked the first wave of Islamization in the
Philippines, laying the groundwork for future Muslim settlements.
Sheikh Karimul Makhdum (1380 CE)
Arrival: In 1380 CE, also in Sulu.
Significance: He is credited with building the first mosque in the
Philippines at Tubig-Indangan, Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, known today as the
Sheikh Karimul Makhdum Mosque. This became the first permanent
center of Islamic faith and learning in the country. Sheikh Makhdum
further strengthened Islamic teaching and community life, preparing the
way for later Islamic governance under Sharif ul-Hashim of Sulu.

9. Legacy of the Sultanate System
The Sultanates of Sulu and Maguindanao were the earliest
Islamic governments in the Philippines. They promoted
justice, unity, trade, and education based on Islamic
principles. Founded by Sharif ul-Hashim (Sulu, 1450) and
Sharif Kabungsuan (Maguindanao, early 1500s), they
strengthened faith, culture, and governance among Muslim
Filipinos. Their legacy endures through traditional
leadership, cultural identity, and the pursuit of peace and
dignity in the nation.

10. Contribution of Muslim Filipinos to Nationhood
Introduction of Islam and Education – Brought early systems of
learning, ethics, and governance based on the Qur’an and Shariah.
Formation of Early States and Sultanates – Established organized
governments (Sulu and Maguindanao) long before Spanish
colonization.
Promotion of Trade and Diplomacy – Opened international
relations with neighboring countries like China, Brunei, and
Borneo.
Defense of Freedom and Sovereignty – Resisted foreign
colonization and preserved native identity and religion.
Cultural Enrichment – Contributed rich traditions in art,
architecture, music, and literature that shape Filipino diversity.

11. Core Muslim Filipino
Practices
and Values

12. A. The Five Pillars of Islam in Daily Life
• Shahada, Salah, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj as guiding principles.
B. Family and Community Values
• Respect for elders (adab), hospitality (maratabat), and communal
solidarity (jama’ah).
C. Traditions and Customs
• Wedding, birth, and burial practices.
• Role of Imams, Ulama, and community elders.
D. The Concept of Peace in Islam (As-Salaam)
• Islam as a religion of peace and mercy.
• Qur’anic and Hadith foundations for peaceful coexistence.

13. Misunderstandings
and Stereotypes

14. A. Common Misconceptions About Muslim
Filipinos
• Linking Islam with violence or extremism.
• Misinterpretation of cultural symbols
(e.g., hijab, halal, prayer rituals).
B. The Role of Education and Media
• Promoting accurate portrayals of Muslim Filipinos.
• Combating prejudice and misinformation.

15. Building Bridges of
Respect and Peace

16. A. Interafaith and Intercultural Dialogue
Importance of dialogue in strengthening relationships.
Examples of successful interfaith initiatives.
B. Government and Civil Society Initiatives
Role of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos
(NCMF) and Salaam Police
Programs under the National Action Plan on
PCVE (Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism).
C. The Role of Religious and Traditional Leaders
Promoting peace through moral guidance and
mediation.
Encouraging cultural sensitivity and inclusivity.

17. Steps for Fostering
Respect and
Understanding

18. A. Cultural Sensitivity in Governance and Education
Incorporating Islamic holidays, halal food, and dress
code respect.
B. Interpersonal Engagement
Respectful communication and participation in cultural
events.
C. Peace Education and Community Collaboration
Integrating peace and cultural literacy in schools and
LGU programs.

19. Reflection on Unity in Diversity
"Philippines as a shared home for
all faiths and cultures."
Call to Action
“Understanding is the first step
toward peace.”

20. “Understanding Islam and the Muslim Filipino
identity is more than a lesson in faith — it is a
bridge of peace that connects hearts, corrects
misconceptions, and reminds us that
harmony begins with understanding.”
— SULTAN COSANIE MORTABA DEROGONGAN (DSC) MPA
(Sultan a Masirikampo sa Pilipinas)
Director IV, Bureau of Peace and Conflict Resolution
National Commission on Muslim Filipinos
Head, Religious Leaders Cluster NAP/PCVE
Salaam Police PCVE Program October 21, 2025
Mindoro Occidental PPO MIMAROPA

21. SHUKRAN!