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COTABATO CITY — In a historic move, the Bangsamoro Government will offer subsidized Hajj pilgrimages to 350 individuals, including 200 decommissioned combatants, 150 former combatants, and 22 office personnel.
This came following a coordination meeting between the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ (BDI) and the Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority (BPA) in preparation for the upcoming Hajj Program, also known as Manasikul Hajj, for Bangsamoro constituents.
BPA Deputy Executive Director Dr. Norodin Salam said the meeting focused on organizing and streamlining the program’s processes to ensure its success while paving the way for future joint initiatives aimed at supporting the Bangsamoro community in various religious and social endeavors.
Salam highlighted the significance of the meeting with the Ulama, emphasizing its role in strengthening the preparedness of Bangsamoro pilgrims.
“This historic meeting with our Ulama signifies a jump start of strengthening the readiness of Bangsamoro pilgrims,” he said.
He further explained that the Ulama from BDI would play a crucial mentoring role, accompanying the pilgrims during Hajj 2025 to provide guidance and support throughout the journey.
Key discussions included the importance of conducting a Hajj simulation to familiarize participants with essential pilgrimage aspects.
The BDI Islamic Jurist is developing a comprehensive Hajj Module, with the BPA playing a pivotal role in its implementation while also providing religious and advisory guidance.
Additionally, the BPA will oversee participant data validation and manage the program’s operational flow. This collaboration not only ensures the success of the Hajj program but also strengthens the partnership between BDI and BPA.
The initiative underscores the BARMM’s (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) commitment to supporting former combatants in their spiritual journey while fostering peace and unity among the Bangsamoro people. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO