Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs

NCMF JOINS DMW NATIONAL REINTEGRATION NETWORK & JOBS FAIR TO SUPPORT REPATRIATED MUSLIM OFWs

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), under the leadership of the Honorable Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, actively participated in the recently held “Bayanihan Para sa Bayaning Manggagawa” National Reintegration Network and Jobs Fair, organized by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on April 6, 2026, at the M.I.C.E Center, Quezon City.

Representing the NCMF was the Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs (BMEA), headed by Director IV Saleha P. Sacar, through its Manpower Development and Skills Training Division, led by Chief Aleah S. Marabur, together with her staff DMO III Alayza P. Masorong, DMO II Rauna Hadjisalic, and DMO II Taharuddin Ampatuan.

Also present were SBTDD Chief Nelmirah Sulay, DMO III Norfaisah Maulana, DMO II Jamal M. Habib and DMO II Mohammad Khalid Ismael.

The BMEA took part in the initiative aimed at empowering returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), job seekers, and aspiring professionals through employment opportunities and reintegration support services.

The event brought together government agencies, private sector employers, and stakeholders to provide accessible job opportunities and essential services to returning Filipinos. Attendees were given direct access to hiring companies across various industries, while also benefiting from support programs designed to ease their transition back into local communities.

In line with its mandate to promote the welfare and development of Muslim Filipinos, the NCMF, through BMEA, highlighted and offered specialized programs tailored for repatriated Muslim OFWs. These include the Halal Livelihood Starter Kit, which aims to assist beneficiaries in establishing sustainable, Shari’ah-compliant sources of income; Individual and Family Islamic Counseling, providing spiritual and psychosocial support; and Translation of Documents, to help facilitate employment and reintegration processes.

Through its participation, the NCMF ensures that Muslim OFWs are provided with culturally appropriate and accessible support services as they reintegrate into Philippine society, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the nation and supporting their journey toward a stable and productive future back home.

HAPPY EID AL FITR!

The Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs (BMEA), under the leadership of Director IV Saleha P. Sacar, JD, DPA, warmly extends its heartfelt greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters in celebration of Eid Al Fitr.

As we mark the end of the blessed month of Ramadhan, may this celebration bring peace and prosperity to all. May the values of sacrifice and compassion continue to guide us in our journey toward growth and development within our communities.

Let this Eid be a reminder of our collective strength and commitment to uplift one another and promote harmony across all sectors.

Happy Eid Al Fitr to you and your loved ones! May Allah (swt) accept our prayers, fasting, and good deeds. 🤲

DIRECTOR SALEHA P. SACAR — HALAL INDUSTRY ADVOCATE IN THE PHILIPPINES AND DESIGNATED AS THE ALTERNATE REPRESENTATIVE OF NCMF SECRETARY TO THE HALAL BOARD

In the interest of public service, BMEA Director Saleha P. Sacar is hereby designated as the alternate representative of NCMF Secretary to the Halal board pursuant to RA 10817.

Director Saleha Pangarungan Sacar, JD DPA serves as the head of the Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs (BMEA) under the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) — the government body tasked with promoting economic development among Muslim Filipinos and advancing the halal sector at the national level.
In her role, Director Sacar has been a central figure in driving initiatives to strengthen and mainstream the halal economy in the Philippines. She oversees strategic partnerships, policy initiatives, and industry engagements aimed at expanding the country’s halal ecosystem — including product certification, halal-friendly tourism, and Islamic finance opportunities.

Director Sacar has actively represented the Philippines in high-level events and partnerships designed to accelerate halal industry development. She delivered keynote addresses at public-private partnership launches to boost halal and Islamic finance, and participated in roundtable discussions with international stakeholders, including delegates from the ASEAN Countries and Middle East Countries, to enhance accreditation standards and regulatory frameworks.

Under her leadership, BMEA has contributed to initiatives such as the creation of halal consumer spaces, the facilitation of partnerships for cooperative development in Muslim communities, and the hosting of major events like the Halal Industry and Financial Solutions Roundtable, which showcased tools like the “Barakah” app — a digital platform connecting Muslim-friendly services, products, and services across the Philippines.

Director Sacar’s work reinforces the NCMF’s mandate to harmonize halal standards with Islamic law, implement comprehensive training for halal auditors, and build the institutional capacity necessary to ensure rigorous certification processes. Through these efforts, she contributes to positioning the Philippines as an emerging halal hub in Southeast Asia — expanding market opportunities for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and enhancing the country’s appeal to Muslim tourists and investors alike.

BMEA ADVANCES RAMADHAN IFTAR AS A STRATEGIC PLATFORM FOR HALAL MSME DEVELOPMENT AND COOPERATIVE FORMATION

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), under the leadership of Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, through the Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs (BMEA) led by Director Saleha P. Sacar, facilitated the 2026 Iftar Program as a faith-centered initiative that also serves as a vehicle for economic empowerment within the Muslim community.

Now on its second year of implementation, the program continues to gather community members to break their fast during the holy month of Ramadan while intentionally engaging micro Halal establishments as official catering partners. By sourcing meals and services from small Muslim-owned food providers, the activity creates immediate livelihood opportunities and introduces these entrepreneurs to structured participation in community-based economic activities.

Beyond the communal aspect of Iftar, the initiative is designed to guide participating vendors toward organization and eventual consolidation into cooperatives, enabling them to strengthen production capacity, improve market access, and build collective sustainability. This approach reflects BMEA’s broader mandate of nurturing inclusive economic growth by transforming religious and social gatherings into entry points for enterprise development, financial participation, and long-term capacity building.

Through this continuing effort, the Bureau demonstrates that Ramadan programs may serve not only as expressions of unity and compassion but also as practical mechanisms for strengthening the Halal ecosystem and advancing cooperative-based economic resilience among Muslim Filipinos.

𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐈𝐙𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐖𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐄𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐏 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐈𝐙𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐍𝐄𝐓𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐊 (𝐍𝐑𝐍) 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐂𝐄𝐒

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), through its Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs headed by Director Saleha P. Sacar, actively participated in the Harmonization Writeshop of the National Reintegration Network (NRN) together with key partner agencies. The activity was led by Manpower Development and Skills Training Division Chief Aleah S. Marabur and attended by Ms. Alayza P. Masorong and Ms. Rauna Hadjisalic, in support of the harmonization of programs and services under the K*K Strand: Kalinga, Kaalaman, at Kabuhayan.

This significant activity served as a platform for strengthening inter-agency coordination, aligning institutional strategies, and enhancing the delivery of programs and services for the benefit of Muslim Filipinos and returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Through focused discussions, group workshops, and planning sessions, participating agencies were able to identify priority areas, streamline initiatives, and develop unified action plans that promote inclusive and sustainable development.

As part of its strong commitment to livelihood empowerment, NCMF proudly presented the NCMF Halal Starter Kit under the Kabuhayan component, which aims to provide Muslim beneficiaries with practical tools, technical support, and Halal-compliant livelihood opportunities. This initiative seeks to encourage entrepreneurship, strengthen economic resilience, and support self-reliance among communities.

The writeshop also facilitated meaningful knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices among partner agencies. It highlighted the importance of cooperation in addressing social protection, education, and livelihood concerns under the K*K framework. Through this collaborative approach, participating institutions reinforced their shared responsibility in delivering responsive and people-centered public service.

Through the leadership of Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, this joint undertaking highlights the NCMF’s strong commitment to inclusive governance, sustainable livelihood programs, and the empowerment of Muslim Filipino communities nationwide. With the continued support of partner agencies, the NCMF remains dedicated to building resilient, self-reliant, and progressive communities. Together, we advance in unity and service toward a more inclusive nation.

MEET THE SPEAKERS OF THE 5TH INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC FINANCE CONFERENCE (IIFC)

The 5th International Islamic Finance Conference (IIFC) brings together an esteemed lineup of speakers who will share insights and experiences on key developments in Islamic finance.

CENTRAL OFFICE:

BUREAU OF MUSLIM ECONOMIC AFFAIRS

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT 🇵🇭

This Commission under the outstanding leadership of Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim through the initiative of BMEA Director Saleha P. Sacar, JD DPA are pleased to inform the public at large that the “BARAKAH APP” developed by NCMF Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs in partnership with Planning Service, MISD have been approved by Google.

The BARAKAH APP is a Halal Directory App that encompasses the Global Halal Economy. This comprise of the Halal Stake Holders and end users including the Shariah Compliant Services available in the Philippines. This is also made possible through the capstone by Mr. Abduljalim Pangandaman during his study in DAP, Philippines.

To download, click the link below.

https://barakah.directory/

ISLAMIC BANKING FORUM AND MOU SIGNING BETWEEN NCMF AND MAYBANK

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), in partnership with Maybank Philippines, Inc. (MPI), successfully convened an Islamic Banking Forum and Ceremonial Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 15 December 2025 at the Ground Floor (Synergy Center), Maybank Corporate Center, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. A milestone in advancing Islamic banking and finance in the Philippines through institutional collaboration.

Representing NCMF were Commissioner Anna Kharima B. MIndalano, MD; Deputy Executive Director Atty. Jehan-Jehan A. Lepail; BMEA Director Saleha P. Sacar, JD, DPA; South Luzon Regional Director Atty. Alimar G. Macasindil; including other NCMF personnel from Central Office and Regional SEDD.

The program formally opened with welcome remarks and key messages from the leadership of both institutions. Mr. Patrick, OIC President and Chief Executive Officer of Maybank Philippines, Inc., highlighting Maybank’s commitment to supporting inclusive and Shari’ah-compliant financial solutions.

This was followed by the message of NCMF Secretary, Honorable Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, delivered through Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs (BMEA) Director Saleha P. Sacar, JD, DPA, emphasizing that partnerships with Islamic banking institutions, such as Maybank, are vital to raising awareness of Islamic finance principles and exploring Shari’ah-compliant financing opportunities for cooperatives, micro, small, and medium enterprises, and other economic initiatives.

The key highlight of the event was the Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the NCMF and Maybank. The MoU formalized the shared commitment of both institutions to collaborate on initiatives related to Islamic banking and finance awareness and other Shari’ah-compliant financial instruments.

Following the ceremonial signing, the Islamic Banking Forum commenced, providing participants with valuable insights into the current landscape and future prospects of Islamic finance in the country. The forum opened with remarks from NCMF South Luzon, under the leadership of Acting Director Atty. Alimar G. Macasindil.

An Overview of Islamic Finance was then presented by Mr. Enrico Cordoba, Head of Strategy and Transformation of MPI. His presentation discussed the fundamentals of Islamic banking, its growth potential in the Philippine market, and the role of Islamic finance in promoting ethical, inclusive, and sustainable economic development. The forum concluded with an Overview on Takaful delivered by Mr. Don Divinagracia, Head of Takaful of ELGAP.

In conclusion, the Islamic Banking Forum and the ceremonial signing of the MoU reaffirmed the strong partnership between the NCMF and Maybank in advancing Islamic banking, finance, and takaful in the Philippines. The event served as a platform for dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, reinforcing the vision of promoting financial inclusion, economic empowerment, and sustainable development for Muslim Filipinos through Shari’ah-compliant financial systems.

2025 ISLAMIC FINANCE COORDINATION FORUM (IFCF) MEETING

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), led by Secretary Hon. Sabuddin N. Abdurahim and represented through the Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs (BMEA) under Director Saleha P. Sacar, JD, DPA, participated in the 2025 Islamic Finance Coordination Forum (IFCF) meeting held virtually via Zoom on 27 November 2025.

The IFCF Philippines is a government-led body chaired by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), composed of various national government agencies including the Bureau of the Treasury, Insurance Commission, Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Securities and Exchange Commission, Department of Trade and Industry, National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, and the Bangsamoro Government, among others. The Forum serves as a platform for interagency collaboration focused on developing a supportive ecosystem for Islamic finance in the Philippines through policy formulation, regulatory harmonization, and coordinated initiatives.

Over the years, the IFCF has contributed significantly to the expansion of the Islamic finance landscape in the Philippines. Key achievements include the passage of the Islamic Banking Law in 2019, the licensing of new Islamic banks and takaful (Islamic insurance) operators, the development of the domestic sukuk market, and the establishment of the Shari’ah Supervisory Board in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

During the 2025 meeting, the IFCF proceeded with a structured agenda that opened with the call to order and the introduction of senior officials and first-time attendees. BSP Deputy Governor Lyn Javier delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of continued interagency collaboration. The body then approved the Recall Sheet from the previous meeting held on 7 July 2023, followed by a comprehensive presentation of accomplishments and ongoing initiatives from participating member agencies.

Representing the NCMF, BMEA Chief Aleah S. Marabur presented the Commission’s accomplishments and ongoing initiatives on Islamic finance. She also conveyed the support and guidance of NCMF Secretary Sheikh Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, whose leadership continues to strengthen the agency’s engagement in national Islamic finance development efforts. Likewise, Chief Marabur acknowledged the consistent directive and strategic support of BMEA Director Sacar in ensuring NCMF’s active participation in the IFCF and in advancing Islamic finance programs nationwide.

Chief Marabur highlighted the major milestones of the NCMF’s flagship International Islamic Finance Conference (IIFC), which for nearly a decade has driven Islamic financial awareness, economic empowerment, and international engagement for Muslim Filipinos.

Since 2015, the NCMF has successfully implemented four major IIFCs:
1st IIFC (2015): “NCMF The Way Forward: Bringing the Muslim Filipinos to ASEAN and the Muslim World” – advanced regional integration and international engagement.
2nd IIFC (2016): “Trabaho Ko, Ibadah Ko: Mainstreaming Awqaf and Islamic Microfinance Towards SMEs Empowerment” – emphasized Islamic social finance and entrepreneurship.
3rd IIFC (Part 1 in 2017; Part 2 in 2018): “PH Halal Domestic Industry: Challenges and Opportunities” – focused on strengthening the Philippine halal industry.
4th IIFC: “Strengthening Islamic Banking and Finance in the Philippines: Towards a Global Halal Economy” – reinforced efforts toward a robust Islamic finance ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Chief Marabur also noted the upcoming 5th IIFC in 2026, envisioned to provide broader platforms for innovation, deeper regional cooperation, and greater global engagement. The key initiatives on Islamic Finance includes the following:

A. Launch of the NCMF Ihsan Microcredit Program (NIMP)
- Launched on 26 February 2023 at UP Diliman, this interest-free lending scheme supports indigent families in starting micro and small businesses.

B. Integration of Islamic Finance in the Shari’ah Training Seminar
- In partnership with the Supreme Court, the BMCA fully integrated Islamic finance into the nationwide Shari’ah Training Seminar to ensure standardized and updated Islamic finance education.

C. Islamic Finance Awareness Programs in All Regions
- All 11 NCMF Regional Offices conducted extensive awareness campaigns, reaching hundreds of stakeholders nationwide.

D. Capacity Building through BSP-ADB and MTCP
- Numerous officials underwent specialized Islamic finance training, including eight who completed the AQIF Training in Malaysia and online.

E. Strengthened Collaboration through MOA/MOU Partnerships
- The NCMF continues to build partnerships with both local and international institutions to expand Islamic finance programs.

F. Upcoming Islamic Banking and Finance Forum (15 December 2025)
- In partnership with Maybank, the NCMF will host another landmark forum to deepen public engagement and strengthen industry collaboration.

The meeting also addressed the reconstitution of IFCF membership and representatives, proposed guidelines for regular meetings starting 2026, the creation of an IFCF microsite, and other administrative matters.

The session concluded with closing remarks from BSP Senior Assistant Governor Atty. Arifa Alauya-Ala, who underscored the importance of continued interagency cooperation in promoting a robust and inclusive Islamic finance ecosystem in the Philippines.

2025 BAGONG BAYANI AWARDS

The 2025 Bagong Bayani Awards was held on 20 November 2025 at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacañan Palace. The event celebrated the outstanding contributions, heroism, and exemplary service of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have brought honor to the Philippines through professional excellence, integrity, and compassion.

The ceremony was hosted by the Bagong Bayani Foundation, Inc. (BBFI) in partnership with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) led by Honorable Secretary Sheikh Sabuddin N. Abdurahim were represented by:

Chief Aleah S. Marabur, Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs – Manpower Development and Skills Training Division and Ms. Rauna A. Hadji Salic.

Their attendance affirmed NCMF’s continued support for programs honoring OFWs anchored to Bagong Pilipinas, especially Muslim migrant workers whose welfare and protection form part of NCMF’s mandate.

Objectives of the Event

1. To honor and recognize outstanding OFWs who have demonstrated heroism, excellence, and significant contribution to Philippine society and the global community.

2. To promote positive Filipino values, encouraging professionalism, resilience, and moral leadership among Filipino workers abroad.

3. To strengthen institutional partnerships among government agencies, private foundations, and stakeholders working for the welfare of migrant workers.

4. To inspire and empower migrant communities, including Muslim OFWs who represent a vital part of the global Filipino workforce.

The participation of NCMF in the event directly supports several mandates under Republic Act 9997, specifically:

Promotion and protection of the rights and welfare of Muslim Filipinos, including those working overseas.

Strengthening socio-economic development opportunities for Muslim communities, particularly for OFWs and their families.

Representation of Muslim interests in national activities, ensuring inclusivity, dignity, and recognition of Muslim contributions to Philippine development.

The Bagong Bayani Awards also highlights the achievements of Muslim OFWs, contributing to NCMF’s advocacy to uplift the image of Muslim Filipinos and promote their excellence in the global workforce.

NCMF’s attendance reinforces the collaboration stipulated in the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Migrant Workers, particularly in:

Joint programs for the welfare, protection, and recognition of Muslim migrant workers;

Participation in national initiatives that support or highlight OFW achievements and concerns;

Coordination for culturally appropriate services, including Halal, religious support, and reintegration initiatives for Muslim OFWs;

Strengthening NCMF’s role as a partner agency in migrant worker affairs, ensuring that Muslim Filipinos are included in national recognition programs.

The event also served as a venue to build stronger linkages with BBFI, DMW officials, and other partners involved in OFW welfare.

Highlights of the Program:

- Invocation by Capt. Juanito G. Salvatierra, Jr., BBFI Trustee

- Welcome remarks by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, DMW

- Video Presentation of the Bagong Bayani Awardees 2025

- Message of the President, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

- Presentation of Testimonial Plaque to the President

- Awarding Ceremony and Photo Opportunity

Chief Aleah S. Marabur and Ms. Rauna A. Hadji Salic participated in the full program and engaged with officials from BBFI and DMW.

Strengthened collaboration and reaffirmed partnership between NCMF and DMW.

Enhanced visibility and representation of Muslim Filipinos in national OFW-related events.

Opportunity to explore future collaborative programs supporting Muslim OFWs in social, economic, and reintegration aspects.

Improved coordination for future activities under the NCMF–DMW MOA.

The 2025 Bagong Bayani Awards highlighted the invaluable contributions of OFWs to national development. The participation of NCMF under the able leadership of Secretary Sheikh Sabuddin N. Abdurahim and BMEA Director Saleha P. Sacar demonstrated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to uplifting Muslim Filipinos worldwide, in full alignment with its mandate and its enduring partnership with the DMW.