At least three proposed measures authored and sponsored by Senator Robin Padilla that aim to benefit Filipino Muslims were passed in the Senate.
Passed on third reading were House Bill 8925, which requires the burial of Muslims in accordance with Islamic tradition; and Senate Bill 2819, which strengthens the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos.
The Senate adopted the bicameral conference committee report for a third measure – Senate Bill 1410, along with House Bill 5693 – declaring Feb. 1 as the National Day of Awareness on the Hijab and other Traditional Garments and Attire.
Last January, Padilla sponsored House Bill 8925, which provides clear guidelines on registering the death of a Muslim within 30 days. It also has provisions for the proper transport of a deceased Muslim’s remains.
House Bill 8925 is a sister bill of Senate Bill 1273, which the legislator authored. Senate Bill 1273 provides equal access to Filipino Muslims and indigenous peoples (IPs) in public cemeteries.
Senate Bill 2819 provides protection for the balik-Islam community by giving them representation in the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos.
Senate Bill 2819 provides protection for the balik-Islam community by giving them representation in the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos. Under the bill, the balik-Islam community will have a representative in the NCMF to help them to adjust to their lives based on Islam’s teachings.
Meanwhile, Senate Bill 1410 upholds the voluntary exercise of religious profession and worship, free from coercion or discrimination.
“Feb. 1st is hereby declared as the ‘National Day for Awareness on the Hijab and Other Traditional Garments and Attire’.”
“To promote diversity, awareness and tolerance of religious and cultural beliefs expressed through the wearing of indigenous clothing, head garments and coverings, such as but not limited to hijab, sinulog and tapis. Feb. 1st is hereby declared as the ‘National Day for Awareness on the Hijab and Other Traditional Garments and Attire,'” the bill said.
