TACLOBAN CITY — House Committee on Higher and Technical Education Chairperson and Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre highlighted the moral role of law and faith in advancing the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda during the 7th International Forum on Law and Religion at the University of the Philippines Bonifacio Global City on Nov. 21, 2025.
Speaking before legal scholars, religious leaders, and peace practitioners from Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Pacific, Acidre explored how religious principles and constitutional law can strengthen democratic participation and support women’s leadership in peace and security. He outlined a “three-fold framework” of conscience, complementarity, and community, emphasizing that faith-based engagement complements democratic institutions and promotes the common good.
Acidre cited the Philippine doctrine of benevolent neutrality, noting how legal frameworks allow religious communities to contribute to public life without undermining pluralism. He stressed that faith plays a vital role in sustaining community support during crises, mediating local conflicts, and empowering women in peacebuilding efforts.
During the forum, Acidre also announced the creation of the Southeast Asia Consortium on Law and Religion Studies (SEACRS), aimed at fostering regional research, policy dialogues, and interfaith collaboration.
He concluded by underscoring that meaningful engagement between law, faith, and public policy strengthens democracy: “When faith finds its rightful place in public life, it unites, liberates, and gives voice—turning belief into service and conviction into compassion.”
(LIZBETH ANN A.ABELLA)
