Most Venerable Hsin Bau’s Visit Strengthens Dharma Ties in the Philippines, Fo Guang Members United in Aspiration to Walk the Bodhisattva Path

Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple
November 18, 2025

Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Fo Guang Shan, arrived in the Philippines on November 12 to undertake a series of Dharma propagation activities across the archipelago. Despite his demanding schedule, Most Venerable Hsin Bau responded to the earnest invitation of the Fo Guang community, marking a significant moment for the development of Humanistic Buddhism in the region.

Upon his arrival at Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple in Manila, more than sixty BLIA members—monastics and lay devotees—gathered to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome. The atmosphere was filled with joy, gratitude, and a strong sense of Dharma connection.

Dharma Teachings: Cultivating the Bodhi Mind and Practicing the Bodhisattva Path

During the Dharma session, over one hundred BLIA Philippines leaders, supervisors, presidents, and officers convened to receive Most Venerable Hsin Bau’s guidance. He underscored the foundational spirit of Humanistic Buddhism: cultivating the Bodhi mind, practicing the Bodhisattva path, and applying Buddhist teachings in everyday life.

Most Venerable Hsin Bau reminded the assembly that “every individual is a future Buddha,” encouraging them to engage sincerely in daily cultivation. He emphasized that liberation from suffering arises from letting go of afflictions and strengthening one’s Dharma practice. Even those who have not formally studied Buddhism, he said, can develop insight through exposure to the Dharma, chanting, and good deeds.

Quoting Fo Guang Shan founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun, he remarked:
 “Be an incinerator, not a garbage bin—digest your afflictions promptly.”
 He highlighted how Venerable Master Hsing Yun, despite enduring immense hardship, managed to spread Buddhism to five continents through unwavering vows and compassion. “Master entrusted the mission of Dharma propagation to us. This responsibility should be embraced as part of our collective duty,” he said.

Engaging with BLIA Members: Questions on Faith and Interreligious Harmony

On continuing Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s legacy

Nelson Yao, President of Pasig Chapter, asked how devotees today could remain spiritually connected with Venerable Master Hsing Yun following his passing.

Most Venerable Hsin Bau responded gracefully:
 “Even if Master has already returned to this world, we may not be able to recognize him. The true way to remain linked with Master is to embody his ideals and practice Humanistic Buddhism in our daily lives. Through this, our hearts become one with his.”

On Humanistic Buddhism and the concept of a creator

Secretary-General Marline shared a question posed by a visiting Catholic priest: “Since Buddhism has no creator, does Humanistic Buddhism equate to atheism?”

Most Venerable Hsin Bau explained that while religions differ in doctrines, they share a universal aspiration toward goodness. Venerable Master Hsing Yun consistently advocated interreligious dialogue, harmony, and mutual respect. Buddhism upholds compassion, inclusiveness, and equality; it sees all beings as possessing Buddha-nature, and thus does not center on a creator deity. “In this sense, Buddhism is considered non-theistic,” he clarified.

BLIA Philippines Leadership Affirms Commitment

BLIA Philippines President Kathy Lin presented a report on the association’s recent efforts and expressed profound gratitude for Venerable Hsin Bao’s presence. She noted that his visit is a tremendous blessing for the Filipino Fo Guang community and reaffirmed the local chapter’s dedication to Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s vision and collective spirit. She pledged that the association would continue to cultivate diligently and strive toward the path of Buddhahood.

Strengthening the Dharma Presence in the Philippines

Most Venerable Hsin Bau’s visit significantly reinforced the spiritual resolve of the Filipino Buddhist community, injecting renewed vitality into the propagation of Humanistic Buddhism in the Philippines. Devotees expressed sincere appreciation for his long journey to share wisdom and guidance. With strengthened understanding and confidence in applying Dharma teachings to daily life, they vowed to advance together on the Bodhisattva path and contribute actively to the flourishing of Humanistic Buddhism in the nation.