Authorities from Zamboanga City in the Philippines have expressed their "admiration, respect and praise" for the good works that the Archbishop of Zamboanga has done in promoting understanding and uniting the local Christian and Muslim communities.
Deputy Mayor Beng Climaco had presented a resolution, which was passed by his council, to the Archbishop Carmelo D.F. Morelos as a gesture of appreciation for his "pastoral guidance and work in favour of reconciliation" between the Christian and Muslim communities.
The conflict between the Islamic separatist guerrillas and the armed forces in the region remain, however, despite many attempts to promote harmony at inter-faith dialogues.
The Deputy Mayor presented the resolution to the Archbishop to coincide with his retirement. Mgr Morelos has served as the Archbishop of Zamboanga for eleven years.
Mgr Romulo Valles will replace Mgr Morelos as the fifth Archbishop of Zamboanga by the appointment of the Pope.
A Muslim councillor, Asbi Edding has also displayed his admiration for Moreles' dynamic pursuit of his apostolate, particularly in his efforts for bringing peace among the Christian and Muslim community in the region.
"... results are for all to see: Christians and Muslims now celebrate Christmas and Ramadan together," said Edding.
Zamboanga City is located on the southernmost tip of the Zamboanga Peninsula, on the Mindanao Island, Philippines.
