HWPL Chairman to hold Peace Talks with Mayor Ronnel Rivera of General Santos City and Mr. Manny Pacquiao
Launching Ceremony
HWPL Peace Delegation’s peace tour in Philippines has been proceeding for eight full days, reaching its curtain call today on January 29. HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee and the peace delegation had peace talks with Mayor Ronnel Rivera of General Santos City at the Green Leaf Hotel. "The Mindanao Peace Agreement which was concluded in General Santos City was the starting point of all peace works in Mindanao," said Chairman Lee, asking for the future cooperation to bring out a bigger wave of peace in General Santos.
Being appointed as an HWPL Publicity Ambassador, Mayor Ronnel Rivera promised to cooperate in the peace movements in the local communities.
Also the Peace Delegation met Mr. Manny Pacquiao, the world-renowned Filipino world champion professional boxer. Also a member of the Philippine House of Representatives in Sarangani province, Mr. Pacquiao invited the HWPL Peace Delegation to his house. After the meeting, he has promised to cooperate for justice and peace in the Philippines as an HWPL Publicity Ambassador.
Meanwhile, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has launched the HWPL National Committee on Peace in IBP and celebrated a signboard hanging ceremony. The launching ceremony took place at the South Cotabato Gymnasium with more than 200 representative attorneys of each IBP branch. The IBP has appointed Chairman Lee and IWPG Chairwoman Nam Hee Kim as advisers of the committee and HWPL has appointed 9 Board of Governors and 84 representatives of the IBP branches as the HWPL Publicity Ambassadors.
On 13 November 2015, the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) hosted the ‘IWPG Peace Forum’ to urge the implementation of the International Convention on the Cessation of War and Achievement of World Peace at Clothworkers’ Hall in London. The Forum mainly discussed the role of women in the implementation of the International Convention and was attended by numerous women leaders.
“Only when we become one in heart and gather our efforts to urge for peace, we can do so much more than we do separately,” said Ms. Nam Hee Kim, Chairwoman of the IWPG. She underlined the integral role youth and women play in achieving peace. “When we raise active awareness on how crucial the implementation of the Convention on the Cessation of Wars is, this initiative will be unstoppable by any forms of authority or wealth. Let us all become messengers of peace and speak up for the implementation of the Convention in one voice.”
The IWPG Peace Forum was followed by a Media Conference where journalists from well-known media organizations, such as BBC Arabic and Arab Telegraph, attended. The conference provided an opportunity to explore peace campaigns and projects that Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and the IWPG have initiated. Six journalists and four women leaders were appointed as HWPL Publicity Ambassadors, pledging to accurately and widely report on the work of peace.
On 15 November 2015, at the University of Oxford, HWPL Chairman, Mr. Man Hee Lee delivered a closing speech at the Model United Nations (MUN) conference, underling the significant role youth of this generation can play. “If we wish to permanently end all wars and armed conflicts, youth and woman should act as watchmen of each state, overseeing the progress of the International Convention on the Cessation of War to ensure global peace.” This year's Oxford International MUN was the largest and most prestigious conference where key world issues were discussed and participants could listen to illustrious guest speakers from across the globe.
Having encountered the harsh realities of war crimes against youth first hand, Chairman Lee strongly appealed to the audience and all individuals - “Even before their precious lives fully blossom and receive proper education, should youth ever be forcibly taken away from their mothers and be trained and used as tools to satisfy the greed of others? We must compensate for the lives lost in the midst of all conflicts by providing access to education, especially regarding various peace initiatives to those who are still forced to carry out non-peaceful activities in the world.”
Prior to the events above, Chairman Lee and the HWPL Peace Delegation met with HWPL International Law Peace Committee members and renowned international law scholars to discuss the 2nd draft of the International Convention on the Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts, the core initiative of HWPL.
1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit: “If we take action, it will be achieved”
- Chairman Lee’s appeal to the Implementation of an International Convention on the Cessation of War and Achievement of World Peace
- By expanding the number of HWPL WARP Offices established, support for the peace movement will accelerate further
The promise that was made in 2014 for world peace bears fruit in 2015
The World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit 2014 was attended by about 2,000 guests including former and current heads of state, religious leaders, youth, women, and journalists from around the world and its outdoor events (World Peace Walk and Pre-event) by about 30,000 people. It was a summit of an unprecedented scale, where all participants came together and made promises that laid the foundation for world peace. Notably, former and current heads of state and religious leaders showed their determination to realize world peace by signing the Agreement to Propose the Enactment of International Law for the Cessation of Wars and World Peace and the Unity of Religions Agreement respectively.
This year’s 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit was attended by about 300 people. The attendees included not only those in the various fields that had participated in the summit of the previous year but also international law experts. In order to create an institutional framework for the realization of peace, a draft convention on the cessation of war was presented. This presentation was witnessed by the youth, women, and journalists, as each group holds an important role in achieving peace.
Below are the four highlights of the 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit, which took place on 17-19 of September 2015 in Seoul and the outskirts of Seoul, Republic of Korea.
1. Moving forward - International law experts modify the draft convention on the cessation of war To fundamentally resolve international armed conflicts, HWPL invited international law experts, as suggested by Chairman Man Hee Lee, and presented the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts, which was drafted by members of the HWPL Peace Advisory Council. Through discussion and modification by the HWPL International Law Peace Committee, the draft convention will be improved into a complete and applicable international convention. Furthermore, HWPL aims to send the final convention to heads of state around the world and have it ratified, and to go through the deliberative process of the UN so that the convention will be fully adopted and implemented. Also, it was proposed that UN agencies should monitor and oversee the enforcement of the convention by each state. The convention will include provisions on inter-religious conflict as well.
At the afternoon session of the international law conference, Chairman Lee emphasized that “our future generations can inherit peace only if the international law experts do their part,” and further requested them to “make good laws to make the world a better place.” Moved by Chairman Lee’s earnest appeal, the international law experts suggested setting a specific schedule for drafting and finalizing the convention.
-Launching the HWPL International Law Peace Committee This day, twelve international law experts including Dr. Fathi Kemicha (former member of the UN International Law Commission), Prof. Ibrahim Aljazy (President of the International Law Association, Jordanian Branch, and former Minister of State for Legal Affairs of Jordan), and Prof. Enver Hasani (former President of the Constitutional Court of Kosovo) were appointed as members of the HWPL International Law Peace Committee. They pledged to work together for the implementation of an international convention on the cessation of war. As the first step for this purpose, the participants discussed practical ways to draft the most essential provisions based on the draft convention that HWPL prepared in advance.
2. Inter-religious conference for resolving religious conflict During the HWPL World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Office Presentation Meeting and Religious Leaders’ Conference, the role that religious people hold in the peace movement and the current state of the religious world were addressed. The HWPL WARP Office is a gathering of religious leaders and scholars where they study religious texts and realize that peace can be achieved in the religious world only through religious unity and the answer to peace is within the Creator who gives life to this earth. To find that answer along with people of all religious backgrounds, HWPL began to hold dialogue sessions at HWPL WARP Offices for comparing religious texts. As of September 11th 2015, 104 offices have been established in 53 countries. This day’s session stressed the role and importance of religious figures in achieving world peace and further instilled in each participant a sense of responsibility and commitment to world peace through the unity of religions.
3. Establishing roles of the youth and women in the direction of the implementation process of the international convention Chairman Lee addressed the importance of the youth and women in the implementation of the international convention on the cessation of war. He stressed that they should raise their voices to monitor the implementation process of the convention. For this purpose, the IWPG and IPYG presented the Statement to Urge for the Implementation of an International Convention on the Cessation of War, which all participants signed to strengthen their determination. A worldwide online signature campaign will be launched soon as a means of implementing and expanding the project. Ms. Nam Hee Kim, the chairwoman of the IWPG, said in her speech that, “When the ability of international law experts, heavenly wisdom of HWPL, and work of the youth and women come together, all wars on earth will be brought to an end. Along with all women of the world, members of the IWPG will support the work of international law experts.”
4. Discussing the mission of journalists for peace A total of 17 journalists from 13 media organizations in 14 countries attended the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit. During the press conference on the 17th and HWPL Media Forum on the 18th, they shared the publicity work they have done as HWPL Publicity Ambassadors and discussed the mission of journalists in achieving peace. The journalists in attendance, who swiftly deliver the news of peace to the world, said that issues that the media of each country face should be resolved for such good news to be spread more widely. Also, they brought up the necessity of creating various TV and radio programs to arouse the youth’s interest in peace. Furthermore, they suggested that media coverage on international law that the public can easily understand is needed.
For the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, high-tech filming equipment including helicopter cameras were used to broadcast historical moments where prominent leaders discussed world peace, enabling over 30,000 people in 60 countries to watch them live online. On the 19th, the last day of the event, “Inside WARP Summit,” a newsletter that introduces about the programs of the first day, was provided to each participant and delivered the news regarding the opening ceremony and each session. This event was more than just an international peace conference; it was a harmonious combination of culture and technology that took the cultural events to the next level.
On September 17th, officially marking the opening of the commemorative event, the press conference was held. In the morning of the following day, 30,000 members of HWPL and its affiliated organizations, IPYG and IWPG gathered at the Peace Gate to celebrate the 1st anniversary of the Summit. Various performances on peace including the ceremony of mixing ‘Bibimbap’, a signature Korean traditional dish, symbolizing the harmony and unity of all reaffirmed their solidarity for bringing peace.
Over the course of two days, keynote presentations and speeches delivered at a series of forums and workshops for all sectors of the society stimulated in-depth discussions and Q&A sessions on various topics. Supporting the works of HWPL, tens of thousands viewers around the world witnessed the main sessions that were broadcasted live.
What was noteworthy of the Summit was 2015 HWPL International Conference which featured Presentation of the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts. At the Panel Discussion, twelve experts in the field of International law discussed how to practically implement the presented convention with Chairman Lee of HWPL and Chairwoman Kim of the IWPG.
After confirming the future plans to finalize the draft, these twelve experts were appointed as HWPL International Law Peace Committee for their further collaboration in implementing such a convention.
Can peace be achieved? What would it take?
The chairman of HWPL, Manhee Lee has an answers in his speech of the declaration of world peace.
Man Hee Lee
"The Heavens and the Earth formed by the hands of the Creator have been given to humanity as an inheritance. In all the universe, life in its vast splendour exists only on our world.
The life that grows on the earth is sustained from above - by light, by the rain, and by the air they provide unconditionally to all living beings. We have received the precious gift of life from above, let us give glory to heaven, and live in peace on earth. This is the truest teaching of heaven.
With this eternal gift - the grace and life we have received - are we entitled to fight, kill and destroy one another? We cannot claim to desire peace and continue to provoke one another, causing conflict for the sake of valuing our own national interests above those of others. This will only take the lives of the youth, wasting them in the futility of war. This is not a legacy we can leave to future generations.
Of what use is a young life, born in our day and age, if it is thrown away in this manner - thrown away without having had a chance to bloom? What price can compensate for the loss of a life? Do these young souls have another chance at life?
As emissaries of World Peace; as people who are working towards the restoration of humanity through a new and heavenly culture, we declare the following:
We call on the heads of state of every country to sign an international agreement - a commitment to bringing all wars to an end. We ask them to do this from a spirit of deep-seated love for the people of their country.
We call on all youth to unite in an effort to stop wars and pursue the restoration of peace by agreeing not to fight one another. For World Peace to become a reality, this is the duty of all youth, everywhere.
The only way to stop the fighting and pointless, tragic deaths, is to stop fighting. Nobody can ask for anything greater than this, and know that your efforts - the efforts of the young people of the world today in pursuit of peace - will remain as a never fading light of life for all future generations.
Furthermore, we call on every person, every man, woman, and child in the world, to pick up the mantle of peace. In whatever way you can, we ask that you work to further the cause of world peace and restoration, making it a reality in your direct environments.
Lastly, we call on the media to report responsibly and promote a message of peace to the world.
World peace and restoration has begun at the same time this declaration is proclaimed. Thank you.
HWPL Website updates_ 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit held in South Korea from September 17th to 19th 2015
From September 17th through 19th, hundreds of world leaders including political, religious, women, and youth leaders gathered in Seoul, South Korea for the 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit.
While commemorating the success of last year’s summit, HWPL and participants discussed the notable progresses on two major works of HWPL throughout the summit: the Implementation of the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts and the establishment of World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Offices.
On September 17th, officially marking the opening of the commemorative event, the press conference was held. In the morning of the following day, 30,000 members of HWPL and its affiliated organizations, IPYG and IWPG gathered at the Peace Gate to celebrate the 1st anniversary of the Summit. Various performances on peace including the ceremony of mixing ‘Bibimbap’, a signature Korean traditional dish, symbolizing the harmony and unity of all reaffirmed their solidarity for bringing peace.
Over the course of two days, keynote presentations and speeches delivered at a series of forums and workshops for all sectors of the society stimulated in-depth discussions and Q&A sessions on various topics. Supporting the works of HWPL, tens of thousands viewers around the world witnessed the main sessions that were broadcasted live.
What was noteworthy of the Summit was 2015 HWPL International Conference which featured Presentation of the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts. At the Panel Discussion, twelve experts in the field of International law discussed how to practically implement the presented convention with Chairman Lee of HWPL and Chairwoman Kim of the IWPG.
After confirming the future plans to finalize the draft, these twelve experts were appointed as HWPL International Law Peace Committee for their further collaboration in implementing such a convention.
With this solid groundwork that was resulted from the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, HWPL is accelerating its advocacy work for peace with HWPL Publicity Ambassadors and International Law Peace Committee.
SEOUL, REPUBLIC OF KOREA--(Marketwired - Sept. 25, 2015) -
Almas Jiwani, Global Ambassador of Peace & epitome of Gender Equality delivered keynote address at the 2015 Women Leaders Conference for World Peace on the occasion of the first annual commemoration of the World Alliance of Religions' Peace Summit.
The host organization of the Summit, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), is a non-governmental peace organization registered under the UN Department of Public Information (DPI). It is at the forefront of peace-building in direct response to international disputes and armed conflicts. The co-organizers of the commemorative event are the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and International Women's Peace Group (IWPG), both affiliates of HWPL.
"Ms. Jiwani plays a vital role in advocacy for women's rights. We firmly believe that her unparalleled contribution and participation is extremely meaningful in establishing world peace," said Chairman, Man Hee Lee of HWPL and Chairwoman, Nam Hee Kim of IWPG on the occasion.
Almas Jiwani addressed on the effects of war on women and youth and the necessity for legislation of international law.
"This conference was highly successful because it was able to assemble a cross-section of leaders under the auspices of world peace, women and youth. Having said that, more should have been done to highlight women and youth as casualties of war that is an unfortunate reality in many countries today. We have an immense responsibility in giving voice to those marginalized as a result. Great work needs to be done in implementing international laws that protect these groups" said Almas Jiwani
"If we are to meaningfully engage in discourse pertaining to gender equality and women's rights, diverse groups of peoples need to be involved that can both use their strengths to forward a common agenda and demonstrate that our plurality is indeed a strength in itself. Without peace, development is not possible. Without development, peace is not achievable. Without women, neither are sustainable. It is time for us to walk the walk" stated Almas Jiwani
Chairwoman Nam Hee Kim of the IWPG expressed her gratitude towards all global family of peace who are joyfully celebrating the first anniversary of the WARP Summit at the site. She stated, "The world has been changing since the WARP Summit last year. Let us protect all women and youth with love of mothers and bring peace and unity" mentioning the efforts of the implementation of the international convention and the alliance of all religions. Chairwoman Kim emphasized that "countless peace organizations and media around the world joined forces with the IWPG and IPYG, the two supporting wings of HWPL, in committing to the peace movement."
The 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th WARP Summit has become the pillar of sustainable peace. Women, youth, and world leaders gathered at the opening ceremony in the capital of peace, Seoul, South Korea, to stimulate the implementation of the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts. This Convention will surely ignite the flame of peace in the hearts of all humanity.
On the 19th, members of the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) were in the audience of the conference and panel discussion on the international convention. On the previous day, members of the IPYG and IWPG signed the statement to urge for the implementation of an International Convention on the Cessation of War and Achievement of World Peace. This convention, drafted by the HWPL International Law Peace Committee, addresses the tragedy of lives lost in the midst of wars and conflicts and further states that the majority of those affected are the youth and women. Moreover, it emphasizes the role of the youth and women in achieving peace.
Chairman Man Hee Lee shared his vision how he planed to achieve the peace.
Chairman Lee of HWPL addressed, “We have greeted a new era and everyone here are the leading characters in opening the new era,” emphasizing that the Implementation of an International Convention on the Cessation of War is a brilliant work in the history of the achievement of the cessation of war and world peace and will be remembered for eternity.
If we can abolish the International law that allows for the declaration of war, then in reality peace can arise.
HWPL invited over 30 journalists, reporters, and chief editors from major international broadcasting stations representing 15 countries and religion leaders and politician. Through this conference, World leaders from all sectors of society to discuss the progress on two major works of HWPL
According to the International Bulletin of Missionary Research (IBMR), there are 500,000 religions existing and out of 7.2 billion people over 85% of the population identify themselves as being religious. Seeing this current status, the different principles and values in each religious scripture have played an important role in people’s search for peace. However, ironically, it also resulted in religious conflicts and atrocities because more than 80% of wars are caused or motivated by religious misunderstandings. The misinterpretation of religious texts and biases built due to different faiths have led to religious hatred, persecutions, and conflicts involving physical violence. Thus, religious leaders have an integral role to educate their congregations that differences in religious beliefs must not hinder the progress of establishing world peace.
Realizing such phenomenon, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL, Chairman Man Hee Lee) created the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Office, a forum for dialogue centering on world peace in interfaith relations and scriptural texts. Many religious leaders who participated in the WARP Summit 2014 have voluntarily established the peace offices in their home countries, advocating for true values and unity in religions and peace.
HWPL’s WARP Office aims to prevent the conflicts caused by religious misunderstandings and bring forth peace through gaining deeper understandings of the standards and teachings of each religion and the concept of peace spoken in each scripture. The Peace Offices that engage the local and regional communities of all religions are arising all over the world through 76 offices in 46 countries covering all continents, Europe, Oceania, America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and CIS and the numbers are increasing. Among various nations, the global conflict zones such as the Middle East, Philippines, Indonesia, and Nigeria have also opened the WARP Office and actively gather to take a proactive step toward peace.
Religious leaders assemble and participate in office meeting especially the event titled, “O” or “X” (Yes or No) Question Session about their respective sacred texts. Through the series of questions presented, leaders are able to compare and contrast scriptures and express their beliefs in a non-traditional way. This innovative task has stirred the discussion among the leaders of various faiths and increase interaction. It has deemed to be an effective tool to break the wall between religions and achieve our common goal, peace.
These peace office meetings are becoming a way to bridge the religions in all areas of the globe. With each successive peace meeting which became the global movement, an increasing number of influential religious leaders go beyond their roles, but work as the messengers of peace with sincere duty.
Exactly one year ago, on September 18th 2014, HWPL provided a platform where numerous world leaders gathered in one place to sign a pledge in support of a draft for a ‘Proposal to Implement an International law for the Cessation of War and World Peace’. While last year’s Summit included in-depth peace discussions covering various sectors of society, the 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th WARP Summit will feature the presentation of the first draft of the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts.
To mark the first day of the event, colorful booths were set up with various programs and exhibitions that explore Korean traditional culture and food tasting. In his opening speech, Chairman Man Hee Lee of HWPL stated, “One year ago, at the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit, we called heaven and earth as witnesses and pledged to implement an international convention and the alliance of religions in the sight of God, all people of the world, and the Peace Advocate.” He continued to speak with emphasis that “This is the eternal light which will cease all wars, achieve peace, and leave it as a legacy to future generations,” urging to become messengers of peace.
Yongin, Republic of Korea – On the second day of the 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL, Chairman Man Hee Lee) held 2015 HWPL International Conference: Presentation of the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts. At the conference held in the main auditorium of Yongin Elysian Learning Center, HWPL presented the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts. - See more at: http://www.zimeye.com/day-2-of-the-1st-annual-commemoration-of-september-18th-world-alliance-of-religions-peace-summit/#sthash.C4y7fbx2.dpuf
Chairman Lee of HWPL addressed, “We have greeted a new era and everyone here are the leading characters in opening the new era,” emphasizing that the Implementation of an International Convention on the Cessation of War is a brilliant work in the history of the achievement of the cessation of war and world peace and will be remembered for eternity. Chairwoman Kim of the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) stated at the conference, “the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit is the platform provided for the implementation of the international convention which is the core business of HWPL” and added that the presentation of the first draft of the convention is an unprecedented work that drew a stroke in the history of peace.
After the conference, a panel discussion on the Convention on the Renunciation and Cessation of War and International Armed Conflicts took place at 1 pm. During the discussion, a panel of eleven world-renowned international law experts presented their views on the convention. After the panel discussion on the convention, HWPL appointed the eleven world-renowned scholars of international law as members of the HWPL International Law Peace Committee. The members of the HWPL International Law Peace Committee will return to their respective countries and continue with the work of developing the convention.
GYEONGGI, SOUTH KOREA – Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), a non-governmental peace organization registered under the UN Department of Public Information (DPI), is hosting the 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit. The two affiliates of HWPL, the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) and the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), organized the Summit. Prior to the first day of the official event, on September 17th 2015, a press conference was held at the Peace Palace in Gyeonggi Province, Korea. Over 30 journalists, reporters, and chief editors from major international broadcasting stations representing 15 countries came to report about the Summit and interview Chairman Lee, of HWPL, and organizing representatives.Press Conference on the 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th
World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Summit
Held just before the UN’s International Day of Peace, the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit will serve as a platform for world leaders from all sectors of society to discuss the progress on two major works of HWPL: the Implementation of an International Convention on the Cessation of War and Achievement of World Peace and the establishment of the World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Offices. It expects to highlight September as the “Month of Peace.”
Elizabeth Costales Cachin, a journalist of PTV from the Philippines asked about the purpose of HWPL and the duty of the press and media in stopping armed conflicts and achieving world peace. Chairman Lee said, “First of all, we have to carefully examine what is behind the scenes of armed conflicts. In order to stop wars, a rigid system is needed to bring forth a practical solution for peace. That solution is the international convention on the cessation of war and achievement of world peace. The purpose of HWPL is to bring about the cessation of war and establish peace as an inheritance for future generations. Certainly, world peace will be achieved if all reporters are accountable for accurate reporting standards and continually report on peace.” Chairwoman Kim of the IWPG added, “All reporters and journalists have to become the eyes and mouths of all people to widely deliver the message of peace accurately and quickly. This is the responsibility of the media.”
Suraj Bhattarai, English News Editor of Himalaya Television in Nepal also asked about the roles of IWPG and IPYG in urging the implementation of the convention on the cessation of war. Chairwoman Kim replied, “A bird cannot fly with only one wing. Likewise, IWPG and IPYG serve as the two wings of peace, making it possible for HWPL to soar. We have clearly seen that the development of weapons and armed forces have not guaranteed to bring peace to us. If we continue what we’ve been doing, we will not only inherit a world of war but also the destruction of mankind for our future generations. Therefore, we call women and youth of the world to sign a statement to urge for the implementation of the convention on peace. We will work until the time when we can inherit a sustainable peace as an eternal legacy for our children.”
Over the course of two days, the Summit will feature the presentation of the first draft of the Convention on the Cessation of War and Achievement of World Peace prepared by members of HWPL’s Peace Advisory Council and International Law Committee. As these legal professionals will continue to carry out the project based on the convention drafted at the event, expectations are high for its outcome.
On behalf of the international community and nongovernmental organizations, HWPL is taking the lead in peace-building in response to a world rife with disputes and armed conflicts. Such efforts are evident from not only the upcoming commemorative event but also with the peace activities of the two affiliated organizations of HWPL—IWPG and IPYG. HWPL is striving to promote world peace and prosperity of mankind by presenting the most peaceful solution to the structural problems that our society is currently facing.
The 1st Annual Commemoration of September 18th World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit is now on air! Click the link below. (From 10AM on September 18th through 3PM on September 19th Korea Standard Time) http://warpsummit.org/
* Live coverage of 2015, WARP of 1st Commemoration *
Broadcasting time ▶ South Korea 18th September 10:00-12:30 AM South Korea, Time (GMT +9) 18th September 16:00-19:00 PM South Korea, Time (GMT +9) 19th September 09:00-12:00 AM South Korea, Time (GMT +9)
Philippine lawyers have a freshly sworn in the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP). The former Executive Vice President Rosario T. Setias-Reyes was appointed as the National President of IBP, replacing Attny.
Vincente M. Joyas who served the organization from 2013, at the inauguration ceremony held at the Dignitaries Lounge at the Supreme Court on July 7th, 2015. Setias-Reyes is the first female National President of the IBP, the official organization of all Philippine lawyers whose names appear in the Roll of Attorneys of the Supreme Court. IBP’s national board members for 2015-2017 were sworn in before the SC Clerk of Court.
At the occasion, a group of selected guests were also invited to witness the scene. A Peace Advocate and Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (“HWPL”), Mr. Man Hee Lee attended the ceremony and the dinner held afterwards to give a congratulatory message upon the special invitation from IBP along with Chairwoman Nam Hee Kim of International Women’s Peace Group (“IWPG”).
Chairman Lee, as known his achievement is especially noteworthy in the nation, played a decisive role in ending a 40-year conflict of Mindanao between Catholic and Muslim communities. At the inaugural dinner, Chairman Lee spoke about the significance of the enactment of an international law for the cessation of war and role of judicial officers and urged the national board members of IBP and all judicial leaders to realize the necessity of amending the international law to terminate all wars. He stated that the road blocks in achieving enduring peace within this world is because there is a lack of an international constitutional law to ban wars and war crimes.
Seeing this matter, Chairman Lee has appealed to world leaders to demonstrate their commitment to peace by signing the enactment of war into international law. “If each nation’s head and leaders desire for world peace and truly love their people, they should work for this amendment and sign on the agreement of the enactment of an international law to cease wars. For the future of justice in the Philippines, all the honorable officers who are here with me today have to urge the nations to participate in establishing a law that prohibits the further producing and developing of weapons. In case if any states violate the law and continues to carry out any non-peaceful activities, a form of penalty and punishment should be applied under an international law,” said Chairman Lee.
Chairwoman Kim also called on the officers present especially woman leaders to actively work for peace by saying “Numerous international agreements and principles for peace have been drawn up and ratified until today. However, war and civil unrest have not stopped in this world. The only way to define the right framework for the nations to bring forth peace is Chairman Lee’s initiative on the enactment of an international law for peace. We, the women, have the responsibility to protect our husbands, children, and our neighbors.”
President Setias-Reyes acknowledged the tremendous efforts of two Chairpersons for the last several years, visiting nations and promoting the need of the implementation of the law for peace. As she became the new President, Setias-Reyes agreed to serve as the member of HWPL’s Peace Advisory Council to work for and bring forth such enactment. In the mean time, in his latest visit in the Philippines in late May this year, Mr. Lee has already met the former President Attny. Joyas with a few prominent political and judicial leaders through a private meeting arranged in Manila. Attny. Joyas, who has served as the member of HWPL’s Peace Advisory Council since then, again expressed his support in assisting Mr. Lee’s proposal on the enactment of an international constitution to permanently end wars and conflicts and will further collaborate with international lawmakers to implement the proposal.
The value of precious lives and resources destroyed in war are a result of decisions made by individuals and these individuals make justifications for their actions to continue to practice war crimes in many parts of the world. As the IBP officers have agreed and pledged to protect citizens and villages of the Philippines through advising and supporting HWPL in the amendment process, it is realized that peace has come one step closer.
The third World Alliance for Religions Peace (WARP) meeting was recently held in Lagos, Nigeria under the theme “Peace Reflected on the Concept of Good and Evil in the Scriptures.”
The alliance of religious leaders is working towards the cessation of wars and world peace as coordinated by the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).
The 1st WARP Office meeting held under the topic “Peace in the Scripture and this time, with more specific topic.
Discussants at the meeting were Most Rev Dr. Anthony Macfonse Osmond Akinnugba of the Byzantine Orthodox Church, Archbishop; Imam Abdullahi Shuaib, C.E.O/Imam of Zakat & Sadaqat Foundation; Jognson Akin Atere the Anglican Church bishop and Sheikh Abduraahman Sulaiman Adangba of Al-fatihul Quareeb Islamic society of Nigeria National.
The meeting, which also held in Lagos state, Nigeria had in attendance several religious leaders who converged to compare religious scriptures and the definitions for peace according to each religious scripture.
Nigeria is composed of 50 percent of Islam, 40 percent of Christianity and 10 percent of indigenous beliefs. Recently the damage of lives happened due to religious conflicts.
In the midst of this situation, it was stimulating that religious leaders gathered in one place to discuss peace together.
On July 30th, the HWPL WARP Office meeting began with the introduction of participants and watching a highlight video of the purpose and recent activities of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).
And religious leaders presented on the topic of good and evil freely in the favorable atmosphere. They spent time understanding respective religion in one mind with o, x quiz.
Imam Abdullahi Shuaib (Zakat & Sadaqat Foundation, Imam / CEO) said “I attended the 3rd HWPL Lagos Meeting today. It was a successful outing. We also appreciate all the supports given by the HWPL Head Office.”
Mr. Man Hee Lee, the chairman of HWPL also said in his speech: “Let us all become the messengers of peace and leave it as an inheritance for the future generations.”
The International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the International women’s Peace Group (IWPG) with a mother’s heart to protect precious lives are two wings of HWPL that spreads peace and works towards the enactment of an international law.
He traveled around the world eighteen times stating that we should achieve the unity of religions for the cessation of wars because the cause of wars comes from the differences of religions.
Through his efforts, the 85 HWPL WARP offices meeting are being held in 51 countries while 70 former and current presidents of states and 200 judges Advisory Council members are working on the articles to enact the international law to realize the substantial peace.
On the 70th Anniversary of the end of World War II, South Korean peace advocate and Chairman of Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) Mr. Man Hee Lee made a 3-day visit to Japan, following his visit to China. Amongst the topics of discussion during his meetings with Chinese and Japanese leaders were the recent territorial disputes within Asia and the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula.
While in China, Mr. Lee was awarded the ‘Peace Advocate of World Peace’ award from the Vice President of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Zhang Meiying. Addressing women’s groups, youth groups, cultural and religious leaders in Japan, Chairman Lee spoke on the theme of The Source to Achieve World Peace.
“If each nation’s heads and leaders desire for world peace and love their people, they should sign the cessation of war into international law and sign the peace agreement, affirming that they will cooperate to achieve peace” said Chairman Lee. Following the speech, the peace agreement was unanimously signed by attending leaders.
Nearly the end of the meetings with leaders, Pema Gyalpo, the professor of law in Toin University of Yokohama, who is also known as the founder of GIFT (Global Issues Forum) rushed to meet Mr. Man Hee Lee after his trip from India. He showed respect to Mr. Lee for his diligent work for peace and shared many common grounds with him as a veteran himself. After their conversation, the professor suggested to act as advisor for the international law that the Chairman is pursuing. He also decided to sign the peace agreement and agreed to participate ‘World Alliance of Religions: Peace Summit 2014’ hosted by HWPL on this coming September.
Furthermore, Chairman Lee also met with the International Buddhist Congregation (IBC) in Japan. Among the topics addressed during their meeting was the critical role of religion. He also spoke on the importance of the peace agreement as a commitment to continue mutual cooperation for peace, “Practical evidence is necessary such as the peace agreement of Mindanao Island” said Chairman Lee. Afterwards, the Chairwoman of the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Nam Hee Kim emphasized the need for international cooperation through cultural events and meetings. She addressed young women leaders, calling them to actively work for peace.
Last January, Mr. Lee mediated a peace agreement in the war-torn region of Mindanao, Philippines, where regional religious tension between Catholics and Muslims has led to over 10,000 casualties. Working with the citizens of the Philippine city Zamboanga, Chairman Lee organized a Peace Walk that gathered over 12,000 participants—a bold proclamation that world peace is possible.
Mr. Lee is now currently on his 14th world tour, having visited 54 countries. Media stations like Korea Today, Asia News Agency and Dongyang Economic News documented and broadcasted the news of Mr. Lee’s Northeast Asia visit.
