The Mindanao State University – General Santos community conducted the “Friends Beyond Faith: Fasting Challenge” on March 17, 2026, now on its fourth year as an annual interfaith engagement initiative led by the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) in partnership with Faculty Union, Association of Mindanao State University Alumni Association (AMSUA), Cultural Affairs Office (CAO), MSU-GSC Mult-purpose Cooperative and the Mindanao State University-General Santos Fundamentals of Peace Education 101 community
The activity involved students enrolled in Fundamentals of Peace Education 101 (FPE 101) and served as a supplemental learning experience focusing on religion and peacebuilding.
A meaningful interfaith dialogue also took place during the activity, featuring Ustadzah Nur-Ainee Lim Tan, who discussed the significance of fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, and Fr. Angelo Buenavides, who shared insights on fasting during the Lenten season. The exchange of perspectives allowed participants to better understand the spiritual depth and purpose of fasting across religions, highlighting both unique practices and shared principles. Members of Hinabi Gensan were also present, contributing to the atmosphere of unity and cultural appreciation.
In his message, Chancellor Shidik T. Abantas underscored the importance of recognizing shared values among different faiths. He emphasized that, “Whatever your religion, whether you are Muslim or Christian, there are similarities that we should celebrate instead of pointing out our differences… the values of sacrifice, patience, compassion, and generosity.”
The activity reinforced the university’s commitment to fostering interfaith understanding and promoting peace through shared experiences and collective reflection.