The moment you step your foot inside this grand hotel that stands beside the famous

Manila Bay,
did you ever think of welcoming each and every guest so that they don’t feel alone and different
despite their culture and religion? Or have your inhibitions taken the best of you that you solely
project your attention to people who share the same beliefs as you? I found this crowd tonight as
the most diverse group I have ever been present in. And from the moment I saw the audience
tonight, I am still in awe at how beautiful it is to see a group of people from different cultural and
religious backgrounds gather for this momentous occasion.

When I entered that doorway, I saw groups of Muslim brothers and sisters among the crowd as
they proudly wear their hijab and skull cap on. Undoubtedly, they too have visited the Masjid Al-
Dahab which is the largest mosque here in Manila. Surely, they also have performed their daily
prayers or salah while kneeling in the holy presence of Allah before going here. As a Christian,
we do it too with hands clasped together. Others might even have the chance to visit the Quiapo
Church where the Black Nazarene resides. What even makes Christians distinguishable is our
rosary or the cross necklace that we wear or the simple brief prayer we do by making a sign of
the cross.

With all these stark differences from our accessories to the outfits that we wear, I want to share
one thing that has been retained on my memory from now on. See, when you enter this pavilion,
you will notice everything you see. You will notice how bright the color of one’s dress is or if
they wear hijab or if they have a cross necklace on. In the same manner, that’s how we see others
from our perspective. But if you try to take a different angle and stand here at this stage, you will
never see who wears what. When you are here, you will never see differences. Instead, you will
see beautiful colors that create a beautiful scenery to the eye.

 Ladies and gentlemen, I (state your name) a Christian who believes that there is no color or
affiliation that stops God or Allah from loving humanity. Just as a large Mosque lies at Quiapo
where the Quiapo Church is also found, proves to be that religion should not set boundaries
among us. It should serve as a beacon to guide humanity closer to Him. And that should be why
we exist. And that should be why we thrive to make the world a better place. Good morning
everyone!