The program began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an concerningBarā’ah from polytheistsby one of the renowned Filipino Qur’an reciters. Following that, Mr. Abolghasemi, the Cultural Counselor of the Islamic Republic of Iran, welcomed the academic, cultural, and religious figures and supporters of Palestine. In his speech, he remarked:

“On the anniversary of the heavenly departure of Imam Khomeini (may God’s mercy be upon him), we honor this valuable occasion by reflecting on one of the fundamental principles of his political thought:Barā’ah from polytheists, in this expert seminar themedImam Khomeini and Confrontation with Global Arrogance: Foundations and Strategies.”

He further noted that Imam Khomeini, as the leader of the greatest Islamic movement of the 20th century, possessed a vision beyond national borders. In his worldview, “global arrogance” was not merely a political term, but a symbol of the historical cultural, economic, and military domination of Western powers over nations. Within this framework,Barā’ah from polytheistswas not only a religious directive but also a strategic approach for awakening nations, fostering Islamic unity, and resisting domination.

He emphasized that Imam Khomeini always considered the declaration ofBarā’ahduring the Hajj pilgrimage as a unifying force for the Muslim Ummah. Imam Khomeini firmly declared that the fight against global arrogance must continue relentlessly, transcending time and place. His famous statement,“As long as polytheism and disbelief exist, the struggle continues; and as long as the struggle exists, we are here,”serves as a guiding light for all freedom seekers.

He added:

“Even today, the principle ofBarā’ah from polytheistsstands as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a defense of national dignity in cultural, political, and social arenas. We hope this seminar contributes to revisiting the lofty thoughts of the late Imam and strengthening the resolve of nations to build a more just and independent world.”

In conclusion, the Cultural Counselor expressed gratitude for the presence of the influential cultural and religious figures, stating:

“There is indeed much to be said about this great figure and his profound impact on confronting global arrogance. I am delighted and grateful that this gathering includes esteemed scholars capable of elaborating on the deeper dimensions of Imam Khomeini's thought, enriching our discussion.”

He honored the memory of Imam Khomeini and prayed to the Almighty to grant us success and steadfastness in following his path—especially in confronting arrogance and achieving Islamic unity—toward building a world where every human being, regardless of religion or race, may live in peace, justice, and tranquility.

The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran also delivered remarks, praising God and saying:

“In 1902, a child was born in Iran who would later, through his divine uprising, change the destiny of a nation and the Islamic world. No one could have known then that he would one day be known asImam Khomeini, a name that would resonate across the globe and remain eternal in history.”

He continued by stating that it was this very faith that enabled Imam Khomeini to courageously and insightfully speak of the fall of communism and the modern world's spiritual crisis—a spirituality he embodied. He was a man who, after centuries, rose as a spiritual guide of his era, calling arrogant powers to surrender before truth, human nature, and the path of love and faith.

Undoubtedly, Imam Khomeini was inspired by the sacred spirit of Jesus Christ (peace be upon him), and thus revived the soul of faith and love in the lifeless body of the new century, historically fulfilling the dreams of all prophets. The martyred scholar Morteza Motahhari described him as theessence of faith.

This is why the late Pope John Paul II stated:

“We must honor Imam Khomeini (may peace be upon him) for his efforts for his country and the world.”Similarly, Archbishop Capucci said:“Iran’s victory over the greatest world powers was due to Imam Khomeini’s leadership and the people’s strong faith.”

On June 3, 1989, Imam Khomeini prepared himself to meet the One he had submitted to his entire life. Except for God, he bowed to none. The events of that day defy description. The world witnessed the grandeur of over six million people welcoming his return in 1979 and more than nine million mourners at his funeral.

His memory and path became immortal, for he was the embodiment of truth—and truth is eternal. Today, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei (may God protect him), courageously and wisely continues Imam Khomeini’s path.

In conclusion, the ambassador congratulated all attendees in advance on the upcoming Eid al-Adha, emphasizing that one of the most important Hajj rituals is theBarā’ah from polytheists—a cry against oppression and global arrogance, whose most evident symbol today is the Zionist regime. This regime, with U.S. backing, continues its genocidal policies through the massacre of Palestinian civilians, bombings of schools and hospitals, and attacks on innocent people in Gaza. Regrettably, many countries have chosen silence, further compounding the bloody pages of this regime's history of occupation.

Dr. Henelito Sevilla, Director of the Asian Center, University of the Philippines

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most MercifulDistinguished guests,Ambassador Yousef Esmailzadeh,Mr. Abdolmajid Abolghasemi,Friends, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great honor and privilege to once again be invited to speak about the life, works, and role of Imam Khomeini—not only at the national level in Iran but also on the international stage.

Countries of the Global South, and even some in the Global North, that are familiar with the events of Iran’s 1979 Revolution may hold varying views of Imam Khomeini. However, all agree that he and the system he founded—the Guardianship of the Jurist (Velayat-e Faqih)—marked a turning point in Iran’s political transformation, the geopolitics of the Middle East, and global relations.

Several key historical events in Iran, often accompanied by foreign interference, are noteworthy:

• Nationalization of the oil industry in 1952
• The White Revolution in 1963
• The ratification of the Capitulation Law in 1964
• And finally, after the 1979 Revolution, imperialist support for Saddam Hussein's regime during the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988)

The leadership of the 1979 Revolution under Imam Khomeini not only ended the Shah’s regime, but also exposed the direct involvement of the United States in Iran’s affairs. The Revolution revealed the imperialist mechanisms of Western powers that sought to exploit Iran’s national interests, especially its natural resources.

It symbolized the unity of marginalized groups in Iran against foreign political, economic, and security interventions and reflected the legitimate will of the people for political change—a movement embodying a nation's capacity to govern itself without foreign dependency.

Regarding this year’s theme,“Imam Khomeini and the Struggle Against Global Imperialism: Foundations and Strategies”, I would like to present three key points:

First:Imam Khomeini’s revolutionary model was peaceful. Using soft power, he spread his ideas through recorded speeches and audiotapes, not military force. His sermons—from Iran to Baghdad to Neauphle-le-Château in France—resonated throughout the country, from big cities to small villages.

His nonviolent, anti-imperialist revolution served as a model in many Global South nations, although it may have been opposed by pro-imperialist states. For instance, Iran’s 1979 Revolution shares common ground with the Philippine People Power Revolution in 1986 on EDSA—both uprisings stood against tyranny, corruption, and foreign interference.

Today, anti-imperialist sentiments are also visible in Africa and Latin America. A recent example is Burkina Faso, where the election of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, Africa’s youngest leader, symbolizes African resistance against centuries of European exploitation disguised as modernization and democracy.

Second:The 1979 Revolution witnessed the rise of a charismatic and visionary leader from within the religious establishment.Imam Khomeini held high esteem as:

• A prolific writer
• An esteemed Islamic scholar
• A strategist
• A defender of national values
• A respected statesman
• A people's leader

His thoughts emphasized that all nations—big or small, rich or poor—must respect each other’s diversity, sovereignty, human rights, and international law, anchored by firm faith in the Almighty.

Third:Imam Khomeini’s return to Iran and his leadership in founding the Islamic Republic is regarded as one of the greatest political and cultural miracles of modern Iranian history.

This revolution was rooted in deep national, cultural, philosophical, and traditional beliefs, stemming from Iran’s millennia-old civilization. Imam Khomeini’s moral and cultural philosophy fused noble values—both native and global—while opposing destructive foreign influences.

He aimed to preserve national unity from external intrusions, promoting dialogue and consultation among various ethnic and social groups. Internationally, Iran became a pioneer of interfaith and intercultural dialogue, showing its commitment to peace, understanding, and sustainable development.

The experience of the Islamic Revolution proves that when national unity, independence, and peaceful resolve are present, no foreign power can crush a nation’s will.

Today, imperialism has adopted new forms, using international institutions and regimes to legitimize covert goals in the Global South.Behind slogans like globalization, human rights, reform, free trade, and democracy, Western imperialism continues its dominance and exploitation.

In such conditions, the only effective tools left to confront imperialism are:

• Justice
• Truth-seeking
• Equality
• Cooperation among nations

As we commemorate the 36th anniversary of Imam Khomeini’s passing, we stand with the Iranian people to honor his legacy. With faith in God, let us keep alive the principles of morality, values, and spirituality in service to nations and humanity.

Wa alaykum assalam wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh

Ms. Aslie Limbona, Former Commissioner for Women, Philippines

Imam Khomeini’s Struggle Against Global Imperialism and the Role of Women’s Empowerment

Imam Ruhollah Khomeini, founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran and leader of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, is widely recognized for his firm stance against global imperialism. While much focus has been placed on his political, economic, and religious strategies against Western domination, one less explored but crucial aspect of his revolutionary vision was his emphasis on the role of women.

His view on women’s empowerment was deeply intertwined with his anti-imperialist ideology. He saw women not as passive recipients of rights, but as active agents in the struggle for justice, independence, and human dignity.

Imperialism and the Marginalization of Muslim WomenImam Khomeini saw global imperialism not just as a political or economic force, but also as a cultural project. He argued that Western powers sought to weaken Islamic societies by promoting a distorted version of modernity that detached Muslims from their religious identity and cultural heritage.

A major element of this cultural imperialism, in his view, was the objectification and marginalization of women.

Under the Pahlavi regime, with Western backing, so-called modernization policies undermined traditional family structures and Islamic values such as hijab. Imam Khomeini criticized this imposed model, calling it a tool to turn women into instruments of consumerism and Western propaganda, rather than respected and active members of society.

Women as Pillars of the Islamic RevolutionContrary to common stereotypes of religious leaders, Imam Khomeini valued the social and political participation of women—especially in resisting foreign domination. During the Revolution, women were among the most active groups in protests, strikes, and political action. He repeatedly praised their courage and declared:

“Women must be present in all arenas where the fate of the Islamic country is decided.”

He saw empowered women as essential to building a nation resistant to imperialism. By educating and mobilizing women, the Revolution created deep social foundations linking family life with national resistance.

Post-Revolution Policies and Ideological FrameworkAfter the founding of the Islamic Republic, Imam Khomeini and his allies institutionalized the belief that women could be both devout and socially active. Policies promoted:

• Women’s education
• Access to healthcare
• Encouragement of participation in the labor market and politics

This was done within an Islamic framework, distinct from Western secular feminism, yet aligned with the Islamic values of justice, dignity, and equality.

Key elements of Imam Khomeini’s approach to women’s empowerment as anti-imperial resistance included:

1. Education as LiberationHe supported equal access for girls and women to education, emphasizing that an informed woman plays a crucial role in raising a conscious and resilient generation.
2. Political ParticipationHe encouraged women to vote, run for office, and engage in policymaking.
3. Hijab and Cultural Identity as ResistanceFor Imam Khomeini, hijab was not a symbol of oppression, but one of cultural resistance and rejection of commodification of women in Western consumerist culture.

Global Legacy and RelevanceImam Khomeini’s vision of empowering women within an Islamic moral framework has inspired many Muslim communities grappling with modernity, identity, and independence.It challenges the binary that societies must choose between Western feminism or rigid traditionalism, offering a third path where women are empowered in accordance with faith and values—and this empowerment supports national sovereignty and social justice.

Today, many Muslim women, inspired by this model, are actively engaged in education, social service, and politics. The notion of the woman as an active agent against political and cultural domination remains a powerful part of Imam Khomeini’s legacy.

ConclusionImam Khomeini’s struggle against global imperialism was not just about borders, resources, or political systems—it was a fight for the soul and identity of Muslim societies. In this struggle, women were not sidelined, but stood at the heart of the movement.

By promoting women’s empowerment within an Islamic framework, he laid the foundation for a society capable of resisting military, economic, and cultural domination.His legacy invites the world to seek a new path to justice and independence at the crossroads of faith, identity, and gender.

Atty. Nasser Abinal, Head of the Imamate Center, Manila

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most MercifulAll praise is due to God, Lord of the Worlds. Peace and blessings upon our Prophet, our Master Muhammad, and his purified family—Ahlul Bayt.

Dear friends,Peace and abundant blessings upon you all.

The Guardianship of the Jurist (Velayat-e Faqih) is exactly what the Islamic world needs to truly protect its religion, nation, and people. In the absence of Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance), and without a divinely appointed manager to directly govern, a central authority must exist—someone most devoted to God, a follower of the Prophet, who has attained divine love through obedience to the Almighty.

Imam Ruhollah Khomeini (may God’s mercy be upon him)—founder of the Islamic Revolution and the Islamic Republic—was the true embodiment of a sincere servant of God. Though not equal in purity to the Prophet or the Ahlul Bayt, he was undoubtedly a true devotee, living in full submission to God's will and the divine law brought by the Prophet and preserved by the Imams.

The fruit of the Guardianship of the Jurist is the Islamic Republic of Iran, which I believe the Muslim world must study. It is a fortress for Islamic religion and culture, and today stands as the most independent country in the world—even great powers cannot manipulate it, for its governance model aligns closely with the Quran and Sunnah.

As the famous Hadith al-Thaqalayn says:

“I leave among you two weighty things: the Book of God and my family.”Anyone who wants to see the miracle of Velayat-e Faqih should look at the Islamic Republic. Its resilience, progress, and success across fields—from religion and culture to science and diplomacy—are evident.

I could list all divine blessings granted to the Islamic Republic through this system, but time is short.

Imam Khomeini was a true servant of God, a true child of Islam, and a caller to God, the Quran, the Prophet, and his family. His life was the embodiment of the divine philosophy of Imamate, Guardianship, Leadership, and Guidance—not from the line of the Twelve Imams, yet surely rewarded by God.

Through him, God demonstrated the power of true Islam—for the benefit of Iran, the Muslim world, and all of humanity.Though he may not have been among the“purified”or“divinely chosen”, through complete submission, he reached the highest ranks of sincerity and purification.

He loved God—and everything of God: Islam, the Quran, the Prophet, and his household.

He is our model, our example, a mercy for Muslims in following the Prophet and his blessed family.

O God, send peace upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, and upon all the prophets and messengers.All praise be to God, Lord of the worlds.Peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you—and thank you for your attention.

Ms. Zainab Javier, as the program host, expressed condolences on the 36th anniversary of Imam Khomeini’s passing and thanked the academic, cultural, and religious attendees. She then explained the registration and submission procedures for the Imam Khomeini International Award, the highest honor granted by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

This prestigious award is presented to individuals and institutions most influential in promoting Imam Khomeini’s school of thought. It includes both theoretical and practical categories, recognizing outstanding scholarly contributions and impactful sociopolitical activities at national and international levels.

She highlighted the award's major themes and key evaluation criteria, stating:

“This is an open call to all of us to submit our work for consideration.”

Up to two individuals or institutions will be honored per cycle. The award is not limited by scientific field, language, or geography. Receiving other national or international awards does not disqualify candidates. The award is held annually.

Winners, according to the Policy Council’s resolution and the award’s charter, will receive the Grand Medal of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a certificate signed by the President, and a number of gold coins (Bahar Azadi).Deadline for submissions: September 23, 2025.Results announcement: December 2025.

A promotional video from the award’s secretariat was then screened, which was well received by the attending scholars.

Ustadh Bayan, Head of the Quranic Center of the Blue Mosque

I seek refuge in God from the accursed Satan.In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.All praise belongs to God, Lord of the worlds.Peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you all.

Good evening to all of you, dear guests.His Excellency Mr. Yousef Esmaeilzadeh, Honorable Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of the Philippines,His Excellency Mr. Abdolhamid Abolghasemi, Honorable Cultural Counselor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran,

I sincerely thank you, esteemed gentlemen, for inviting me to this highly significant event—the conference commemorating the 36th anniversary of the demise of Imam Khomeini (may God’s mercy be upon him).

I have been entrusted with the task of concluding this program.But before that, allow me to share a few points regarding Imam Khomeini's (RA) struggle against imperialism and Zionism.

Ladies and gentlemen,The 20th century bore witness to catastrophic events that negatively affected people across the globe—most notably, the First and Second World Wars, which resulted in the deaths of tens of millions.We also witnessed the tragedy of the Nakba in Palestine, when Palestinian lands were forcefully seized and handed over to the Zionist regime of Israel.The vast majority of Palestinians became refugees, and today they remain scattered across refugee camps around the world.

Some believe that the positive aspect of the last century was the emergence of independent nations in Asia and Africa.But this is only half the truth—this "independence" was often a bitter illusion.In reality, power merely shifted from white European colonizers to their native surrogates.Corruption, inefficiency, and dependence on imperialism became the hallmark of these systems.

Ladies and gentlemen,True independence means that a nation’s people can freely determine their own political, economic, and social systems—without the coercion or interference of hegemonic powers.How many countries in the world can truly claim such independence?Aside from major military powers like China and Russia,only the Islamic Republic of Iran has stood independently.Perhaps Cuba may be added to this list—but that is all.

Before 1979, Iran was under Western domination.Imam Khomeini (RA)—whose 36th anniversary we commemorate today, June 4—was the only leader who correctly diagnosed the disease afflicting Iran and the Islamic world.He labeled the Shah’s regime a puppet of America and called for an end to imperialist influence in Iran.He also deemed the Zionist regime in occupied Palestine illegitimate, urging Muslims worldwide to rise up against this usurping entity.

Ladies and gentlemen,Imam Khomeini had no army.His companions—mostly Iranian youth—were armed only with faith:faith in Almighty God and a commitment to truth and justice.He not only showed the path but inspired people to sacrifice in its pursuit.This is exactly what the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did at the dawn of Islam in the Arabian Peninsula.

One of Imam Khomeini’s favorite verses, which he often quoted, was:

"Say, [O Muhammad], I only advise you of one thing—that you rise up for God, whether in pairs or singly."(Quran, Surah Saba, verse 46)

The brave people of Iran—men and women, old and young—promptly responded to the Imam’s call.After a year of completely peaceful resistance, which claimed over 80,000 martyrs,the Shah fled, and the regime collapsed.

But this was not the end of challenges—it was just the beginning.Enemies of Islam, led by Zionists and their allies in both East and West,sought to destroy the nascent Islamic Republic.In addition to internal sabotage, an eight-year war was imposed on Iran,apparently by Saddam Hussein’s regime in Iraq,but fully supported by the West and some Arab nations.Chemical and biological weapons were used against the Iranian people.While the UN Security Council issued calls for peace,it never dared to clearly identify the perpetrators of these atrocities.

Ladies and gentlemen,Only the Islamic Republic of Iran was able to withstand such a massive global conspiracy.And this was because of the towering personality of Imam Khomeini (RA).He sought no personal, ethnic, or class interest.He was immersed in piety (taqwa)—a unique Islamic concept that begins with self-purificationbut is meaningless without the effort to reform one's surroundings.

Muslim piety must lead to Islamic activism.When institutionalized, this piety manifests in its highest form as the Islamic Republic of Iran—a collective embodiment of Muslim taqwa.If such a government does not exist, it is the duty of Muslims to establish it.This is the very sunnah (tradition) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Ladies and gentlemen,Every Islamic movement requires leadership.Imam Khomeini (RA) was a leader who rose from the depths of Islam—both spiritual and political.He recognized the unjust global order and sought to uproot it from Iranian soil.Today, Iran serves as a living laboratory for implementing the Islamic model in politics, society, and economy.And because Iran is the only truly independent country,it has become the primary target of the propaganda war waged by hegemonic powers, Zionists, and their agents.

Even American scholars acknowledge that the United States has become a colony of the Zionists.The strength of the Islamic Republic of Iran lies in its adherence to Islamic principles.The system Imam Khomeini (RA) founded enables the people to make great sacrifices.He inspired Muslims and the oppressed worldwide to rise against tyranny and injustice.

Imam Khomeini and his successor, Imam Sayyid Ali Khamenei, are the embodiments of Islamic leadership in our time.

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahil hamdGod is the Greatest, and to Him belongs all praise.

Ladies and gentlemen, this is a momentous occasion.Thank you very much for your attention.Let us unite.Let us learn from the struggles of Imam Khomeini (RA) and seek knowledge.With heartfelt gratitude.

At the conclusion, Ms. Zainab Javier, on behalf of Ambassador Esmaeilzadeh and Cultural Counselor Mr. Abolghasemi, warmly thanked all distinguished speakers for sharing their insights on Imam Khomeini. She also paid tribute to those departed souls who left behind a legacy through their devout and faithful lives.

Other segments of the gathering included:

• Screening of commemorative video clips marking the 36th anniversary of the Imam’s passing and his biography in English.
• An exhibition of photographs and works related to Imam Khomeini (RA).
• The event was broadcast live on the official Facebook page of the “Imamate Manila Center,” which has over 200,000 followers.
• The program concluded with a reception for the guests.