FOWPAL's 121st Country Visit Brings a Message of Love and Peace to Trinidad and Tobago
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze’s Call for Transparency and Integrity Inspires Widespread Support
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, President of the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL), led a FOWPAL delegation to Trinidad and Tobago, marking the 121st country on the organization’s global journey.
On the morning of January 11, 2026, the delegation visited Pitch Lake in La Brea, Trinidad. Recognized as the world’s largest natural asphalt deposit, Pitch Lake is a remarkable geological phenomenon often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Its asphalt has been used in major paving projects around the globe, including Buckingham Palace and the Lincoln Tunnel. Covering approximately 100 acres and reaching depths of 250 feet, the lake slowly regenerates itself and sustains a unique ecosystem that includes rare microorganisms. Today, it is also a popular attraction where visitors can walk on its gently shifting surface and enjoy warm mineral pools. During the visit, FOWPAL members invited local residents to endorse the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity.
That evening, to warmly welcome Dr. Hong and the delegation, distinguished leaders of Trinidad and Tobago hosted a vibrant cultural exchange event at the renowned Henry’s Port of Spain. On behalf of the local leadership, UN Peace Ambassador Dr. Ann Marie Arneaud extended a heartfelt welcome. The gathering brought together many distinguished guests, including former President of Trinidad and Tobago Anthony Carmona; Rev. Dr. Devon Bannister, Pro-Chancellor of CICA International University & Seminary; and other prominent figures from various sectors.
Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, the venue provided an ideal setting for a rich cultural exchange. The evening opened with one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most iconic cultural expressions—the Moko Jumbie performance. With their striking presence and extraordinary skill, the stilt walkers immediately captivated the audience. Originating from West African traditions, Moko Jumbie is a stilt-walking art form that has become a beloved symbol of Caribbean carnivals, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. Representing spiritual guardians and healers of the community, the performers don colorful costumes and dance gracefully atop stilts typically ranging from 10 to 15 feet high, demonstrating remarkable balance and agility. The name “Moko Jumbie” combines “Moko,” meaning guardian or healer of the spirit, and “Jumbie,” meaning spirit or ghost, symbolizing a bridge between two worlds. During the era of slavery, Moko Jumbie served as a form of spiritual protection, later evolving into a joyful and celebratory cultural expression.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, FOWPAL members presented an energetic dance titled “Happiness Is Everywhere,” bringing the evening to a joyful peak as delegation members danced alongside the stilt performers.
Dr. Hong was invited to deliver remarks, expressing his sincere gratitude to the leaders for hosting such a warm and meaningful evening and offering blessings to the people of Trinidad and Tobago and to all living beings. He shared that for more than 20 years, FOWPAL has independently and selflessly promoted love, conscience, peace, and hope worldwide—from the United Nations to countries across the globe. Dr. Hong also initiated the International Day of Conscience and the International Day of Hope, which were adopted by the United Nations in 2019 and 2025, respectively.
Dr. Hong shared that FOWPAL continues to strive for a better world. He noted that beginning with the United Nations conference in Vienna in April 2025, the organization launched an initiative to establish a Day of Transparency and Integrity, aiming for it to become a new United Nations observance.
He emphasized, “Transparency and integrity are the cornerstones of social and national development. They are the keys to overcoming barriers between individuals and between nations, and the principles that enable greater unity and mutual care. We believe that when everyone applies their conscience through transparency and integrity, the world will become more harmonious, and people will enjoy greater freedom and spiritual fulfillment.”
FOWPAL invited all attendees to jointly sign the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity, encouraging concrete action to bring hope to peace and sustainability for humanity. The initiative received an enthusiastic response, with many participants signing the declaration to affirm their support for the principles of transparency and integrity. To date, former heads of state, government officials, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, NGO leaders, peace advocates, and individuals from 151 nations have endorsed the declaration.
UN Peace Ambassador Dr. Ann Marie Arneaud stated, “I think transparency is of paramount importance because if there's no transparent without transparency you are generally afraid because you don't know what's happening and so it's important to be transparent in every area of our lives as a person individually and collectively. Integrity is something that we must stand by.”
She further shared her strong belief that integrity is not only essential, but an integral part of who people are—or who they should strive to be.
Edmond el Daher, Operations Manager at Henry’s Port of Spain, emphasized that while transparency is often difficult to achieve in politics, it is essential for building public trust and fairness. He noted that integrity—reflected in consistently upheld values and actions—is central to identity, credibility, and long-term commitment. Architect Gary Nobie also expressed deep respect for Dr. Hong’s decades-long dedication to global peace and praised FOWPAL’s tireless efforts in promoting peace worldwide.
The evening concluded with FOWPAL members’ heartfelt rendition of “A Prayer for Peace,” offering blessings for Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean, the world, and all living beings. The song invited everyone to light the lamp of conscience, calm their hearts, and pray for a more peaceful and harmonious world. In a warm and uplifting atmosphere, the event came to a meaningful and graceful close. Through this memorable cultural exchange, the FOWPAL delegation experienced Trinidad and Tobago’s rich traditions while contributing a message of harmony, stability, and hope to the world.