Muslims, Protestants recognize OMI works in Mindanao

KIDAPAWAN CITY (Sept. 26) --The Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) missionary priests are not only popular among Christian settlers in the Philippines but also for Muslim and protestant believers in some areas of the then Cotabato Empire. Zaida Cabilo, a Maguindanaoan in the town of Mlang, North Cotabato, was only 15 years old when she first encountered missionary priests and witnessed its works in the town's remote villages despite security and difficult journey. They were wearing white cloth when they visited ourplaces,” Cabillo said, referring to the famous sotana priest wear daily. She even admired the missionary works of the OMI when her family migrated in the town of Pikit in the year 2008. There, Oblate priests riskslives in going to the villages to promote the peace and development even in non-Christian communities. The OMI fathers in Pikit had been promotingJustice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) among all peoples regardless of its faith and belief. During the 2010 all-out war against the enemies of the state launched by former President Joseph Estrada, Cabilo said she saw how the OMI fathers worked hardfor the restoration of peace in Pikit and nearby towns in North Cotabato. Even us Muslims were accommodated inside the Church, provided us foodand assured our safety, especially at night,” Cabilo recalled. She said a smallOblate priest wearing eyeglasses was always checking the evacuees'situation, ensuring they have food and conveniently accommodated. Cabilo refers to Fr. Roberto Layson, OMI, who championed justice and peace in Pikit. Our experiences with the OMI fathers are worth remembering. We will treasure the memories and the help extendedus Islam believers,” Cabilo said. Meanwhile, aProtestant pastor has acknowledged the Oblate contributions in North Cotabato. Pastor Roger Papellera of the Protestant Church,described the Oblates asfaith builders, peace advocates and diocesan clergy maker. They don’t complaint when assigned to difficult andcritical areas. The good thing I admired most in the congregation was the way they stay and live with the poor and under privileged, Pastor Papellera said. Papellera said the Oblates persevered and continue to dare although some of them have been violently killed inwhile promoting peace andspreading the Words of God. Indeed OMIs are the pillars of faith among Christians,” Papellera said.Cotabato City Mayor Japal Guiani, a Muslim, said his city was very grateful for the OMI generosity, for giving a voice to its people. We are deeply grateful for your generosity, for giving a boost to our little voice, and be heard by the country and the whole world, Guiani said. I hope that in the coming years, we will remain partner in upholding the lives of our fellow Cotabatenios and in making a more peaceful and progressive Cotabato City, he said.