National Commission on Muslim Filipinos - NCR Regional Office

𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐆𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 𝐅𝐑𝐎𝐌 𝐈𝐁𝐏 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐋𝐀 𝐈𝐕 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑

01 JUNE 2026 | The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos – National Capital Region, under the leadership of Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos, Jr., MD, CESE, proudly received a Recognition Award from the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) – Manila IV Chapter during its Testimonial Dinner and General Assembly held at the Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Manila, on May 30, 2026.

With the theme “The Robe and the Road Ahead,” the event gathered members of the legal profession, government partners, and stakeholders to celebrate achievements, strengthen partnerships, and discuss future directions in advancing justice, public service, and community development.

The recognition was conferred upon NCMF-NCR in appreciation of its valuable partnership, unwavering support, and meaningful contributions to the programs, advocacies, and community initiatives of the IBP Manila IV Chapter. The award reflects the strong collaboration between the legal sector and NCMF-NCR in promoting social justice, peacebuilding, legal awareness, community empowerment, and inclusive public service for Muslim Filipinos and the broader society.

This recognition serves as an inspiration for NCMF-NCR to continue pursuing programs and initiatives that contribute to peace, development, and nation-building while strengthening collaboration with institutions that share the same vision of service and excellence.

NCMF-NCR under the supervision of Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, extends its heartfelt appreciation to the IBP Manila IV Chapter for this meaningful recognition and looks forward to sustaining a productive partnership in the years ahead.

Also, in attendance were LAD Chief Atty. Jamael M. Batugan, Jr, PBCRD Chief Ali C. Maruhom, Jr., and GAD-TWG Chairperson Rohaima M. Ma-amor.

𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐏𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐌𝐀 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐈𝐌𝐀𝐌𝐒 𝐅𝐄𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐓 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐀𝐈𝐃 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐎𝐑𝐏𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐖𝐈𝐃𝐎𝐖𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐙𝐎𝐍 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘

01 JUNE 2026 | A distribution of bags, rice, and grocery items was recently held for 200 orphans and 100 widows at the Quezon Memorial Circle, City Hall, Quezon City on May 31, 2026.

The event was led by the NCR-Philippine Ulama and Imams Federation in partnership with the Dear Sally Foundation led by President Aleem Nasroden Pumbaya, under the guidance of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF)-NCR headed by Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu Ramos Jr ., M.D, CESE.

In addition to the distribution of essential goods, a series of games and recreational activities were organized for the children to enjoy, creating a joyful atmosphere for the beneficiaries.

This initiative aims to provide much-needed support to vulnerable communities and promote unity and compassion among Filipinos.

NCMF-NCR under the supervision of Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, expressed their gratitude to all volunteers, Ulama and Imams in NCR, and partners who made the event possible.

𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 𝐃𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐂𝐂𝐀 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐓𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐌 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐅𝐘 𝐃𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐔𝐄𝐒

01 JUNE 2026 | The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos–National Capital Region (NCMF–NCR) Regional Office, under the leadership of Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos Jr., M.D., CESE, and under the supervision of NCMF Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, actively participated as a panel discussant during the second session of the Heritage Tourism and Community Engagement Activity organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

The activity formed part of the program entitled “Living Heritage: Cultural Identity Dialogues,” conducted in celebration of Eid’l Adha and the formal opening of the ASEAN Corner on 29 May 2026 at Robinsons Galleria.

The event gathered cultural workers, diplomats, government representatives, youth leaders, members of academe, and community stakeholders for meaningful discussions on cultural preservation, identity, and inclusive heritage development within the ASEAN region. It served as a platform to strengthen intercultural understanding and foster greater appreciation of the rich and diverse cultural traditions shared among ASEAN member states.

The first session of the dialogue, themed “Cultural Identity in the Digital Age: Tradition and Youth Engagement,” explored the role of digital platforms and youth participation in preserving and promoting cultural identity amid modernization and globalization. The panel featured distinguished discussants, namely Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines; Hojatollah H. Abedi, Cultural Counselor of the Iran Cultural Center; and Shariful Hashim S. Mansul of the University of the Philippines Institute of Islamic Studies. The discussion emphasized the importance of empowering the younger generation to become active stewards of cultural heritage through education, community engagement, and responsible digital storytelling.

Meanwhile, the second session focused on “Heritage Tourism and Community Engagement,” highlighting the vital role of communities in safeguarding cultural heritage sites and traditions while promoting sustainable tourism initiatives. The panel discussion underscored the importance of balancing cultural preservation, accessibility, economic development, and respect for local customs and religious traditions.

Among the distinguished panel discussants during the second session were representatives and cultural advocates from ASEAN member states, including Indonesia and Laos. Representing the NCMF–NCR was Lafayette C. Alonto, Development Management Officer of the Cultural Affairs Division, who shared insights on the role of Muslim communities in preserving Islamic heritage, strengthening cultural identity, and advancing community-based heritage tourism initiatives in the Philippines.

Joining the NCMF–NCR delegation were Ali C. Maruhom, Jr., Chief of the Peace Building and Conflict Resolution Division, and Rohaima M. Ma-amor, Gender and Development Focal Person. Their participation reflected the office’s continuing commitment to cultural dialogue, peacebuilding, inclusivity, and interfaith engagement.

Through its participation in the activity, the NCMF–NCR reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural understanding, preserving Muslim Filipino heritage, and fostering stronger collaboration with government institutions, ASEAN partners, academic institutions, and local communities in advancing inclusive cultural development and heritage preservation initiatives.

𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐔𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐐𝐔𝐑𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐈 𝐌𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐁𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐄𝐈𝐃’𝐋 𝐀𝐃𝐇𝐀

28 MAY 2026 | In commemoration of the blessed occasion of Eid’l Adha, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos–National Capital Region (NCMF–NCR), under the leadership of Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos Jr., M.D., CESE, successfully conducted the distribution of Qurbani meat through the initiative of the Peace Building and Conflict Resolution Division headed by Chief Ali C. Maruhom, Jr., in partnership and collaboration with Wisdom and Harmony Foundation, Inc. (HWF).

Anchored on the Islamic values of compassion, sacrifice, generosity, and community solidarity, the activity aimed to share the blessings of Eid’l Adha with Muslim brothers and sisters, particularly persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) confined at the Maximum-Security Camp of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. Through the spirit of bayanihan and charity, HWF partnered with NCMF–NCR in extending assistance and bringing joy to vulnerable members of the Muslim community during the sacred celebration.

A total of forty (40) packs or approximately eighty (80) kilos of Qurbani beef were delivered to the Maximum-Security Camp. The donation was facilitated through CTO3 Oscar M. Olaguera, Chief of the Moral and Spiritual Section, and formally received by CSINSP Saaduddin D. Cauntongan, Deputy Commander for Reformation of the Maximum -Security Camp.

In addition, fifty-three (53) employees of NCMF–NCR also received shares of Qurbani meat from HWF as part of the Eid’l Adha celebration and fellowship among personnel. The activity reflected the spirit of unity, gratitude, and communal sharing that characterizes the observance of Eid’l Adha among Muslims.

The annual beef-sharing activity is one of the continuing community service initiatives of Wisdom and Harmony Foundation, Inc., aimed at extending the blessings of Qurbani to underserved and vulnerable sectors of society. Through this initiative, the Foundation continues to promote humanitarian service, compassion, and social responsibility within the community.

Also present during the distribution activity were Lafayette C. Alonto, Development Management Officer II of the Cultural Affairs Division; Rohaima M. Ma’amor, Special Investigator III and Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Person; Ms. Fauzia M. Jimman, HWF Staff; and Ms. Fatima Shanaya M. Nikabulin, HWF Staff.

𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐃𝐓𝐈 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐄𝐈𝐃’𝐋 𝐀𝐃𝐇𝐀 𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐋 𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐀𝐋 𝐈𝐍 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐋𝐀

28 MAY 2026 | The NCMF–NCR Regional Office, under the leadership of Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos, Jr., MD, CESE, through its Socio-Economic Development Division (SEDD) led by Acting Chief Rehamna P. Mama, participated in the 2026 Manila Eid’l Adha Halal Festival and Industry Forum held at Manila City Hall on May 27, 2026.

Eid’l Adha, or the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant observances in Islam, commemorating the faith and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and embodying the values of obedience, sacrifice, and compassion. Recognized as a national holiday in the Philippines, it is celebrated by Muslim Filipinos through prayer, family solidarity, and community reflection. The Manila Halal Festival highlighted this important occasion while advancing halal industry development, economic empowerment, cultural recognition, and inter-agency collaboration.

The morning program was highlighted by the Keynote Address of Hon. Francisco “Isko” Domagoso, Mayor of Manila City, who emphasized the city’s commitment to inclusivity and support for Halal initiatives. His message set the tone for the festival, underscoring Manila’s role in fostering diverse cultural and economic programs.

Dimnatang M. Radia, CESO V, Program Manager of the Domestic Halal Industry – Program Management Office, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the milestones of the Halal Industry Development and Promotion Project (HIDPP). His discussion showcased the progress achieved in institutionalizing Halal standards and expanding opportunities for Muslim entrepreneurs, positioning Halal development as a vital component of national economic growth.

The Department of Tourism shared insights on Muslim-friendly tourism, highlighting its role in positioning Manila as a welcoming destination for both local and international visitors. Messages of support from foreign dignitaries representing Malaysia and Thailand further reinforced the global relevance of Halal initiatives and the importance of international cooperation in sustaining industry growth.

In the afternoon session, NCMF–NCR was further represented by Atty. Jamael U. Batugan, who joined the panel discussion on government support for Manila’s Halal industry development and promotion programs. His participation underscored the Commission’s active role in policy dialogue and inter-agency collaboration, ensuring that the voice of Muslim Filipinos is well represented in shaping strategies for Halal industry advancement.

NCMF–NCR expressed its strong support for the Department of Trade and Industry’s Halal Industry Program. The Commission recognizes DTI’s pivotal role in promoting enterprise development, and market access for Muslim entrepreneurs. NCMF–NCR commits to strengthening collaboration with DTI, supporting MSMEs in Muslim communities through training and capacity-building, and advancing socio-economic empowerment by integrating Halal industry development into livelihood programs.

This engagement reflects NCMF–NCR’s dedication to inclusive governance and its role as a catalyst for sustainable livelihood, cultural recognition, and economic growth for Muslim Filipinos in the National Capital Region.

Also in attendance were AFD staff Johayra B. Nanak and Zacaria J. Mamayandug.

𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐀𝐓 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐋𝐈𝐌 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐃 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆

28 MAY 2026 | The NCMF–NCR, under the leadership of Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos, Jr., MD, CESE, through its Socio-Economic Development Division (SEDD) led by Acting Chief Rehamna P. Mama, conducted a courtesy visit to the Barangay Chairwoman Cristina Bernardino of Barangay Culiat, Quezon City on May 26, 2026. The purpose of the engagement was to establish coordination with local leadership and initiate a Community Needs Assessment that will guide future socio-economic programs for Muslim residents and the wider community.

The visit provided an initial overview of Urban Hydroponics Farming, emphasizing its potential as a sustainable livelihood option. The NCMF-NCR introduced the concept and outlined its benefits, while also engaging in discussions on livelihood and cooperative development. This activity was conducted as part of a community needs assessment, intended to gather information on priorities, readiness, and available resources.

Chairwoman Bernardino expressed her support for the initiative, recognizing the importance of aligning skills development with the actual needs of her constituents. The Barangay Hall of Culiat, located along Tandang Sora Avenue, was identified as the venue for the continuation of the assessment process, tentatively scheduled for June 01, 2026.

This courtesy visit reaffirmed NCMF–NCR’s commitment to inclusive and participatory planning. By engaging directly with Barangay leadership and conducting a structured needs assessment, the Commission ensures that future programs on livelihood, cooperative development, and urban farming will be responsive, sustainable, and community-driven.

Also in attendance were NCMF NCR SEDD staff Zenaida L. Bantuas, Richielda Dela Cruz, Nor Acmad Manampan and Zacaria J. Mamayandug.

𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐎 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐒𝐔𝐑 𝐋𝐆𝐔 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐓 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐓 𝐖𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍 𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐉𝐀𝐈𝐋 𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌

26 May 2026 | The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos – National Capital Region, headed by Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos, Jr., MD, CESE, through its Gender and Development–Technical Working Group (GAD-TWG) and Legal Affairs Division, in partnership with the Province of Lanao del Sur under the leadership of Governor Mamintal "Bombit" Adiong, Jr., successfully conducted a Joint Women Empowerment and Jail Visitation Program at the Correctional Institution for Women on May 25, 2026, benefiting a total of 235 participants.

The activity aimed to provide moral support, legal awareness, inspiration, and empowerment to women deprived of liberty through meaningful discussions, lectures, and community solidarity initiatives. It also served as a platform to promote compassion, inclusivity, rehabilitation, and holistic support through collaborative engagement among stakeholders.

The program formally commenced with an invocation led by PBCRD Chief Ali C. Maruhom, Jr., followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. Welcome remarks were delivered by a selected representative from the persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), who expressed gratitude and appreciation for the meaningful initiative extended to them. Opening Remarks were delivered by LAD Chief Atty. Jamael Batugan, Jr., representing Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos, Jr. In his message, he emphasized the importance of compassion, inclusivity, women empowerment, and sustained community support for persons deprived of liberty as part of their journey toward healing, reform, and reintegration into society.

A lecture on the rights of women PDLs was conducted by Atty. Imran Pangilinan, providing participants with valuable legal awareness and encouraging them to continue striving for personal growth, dignity, and rehabilitation. An empowerment session was likewise facilitated by GAD-TWG Chairperson Rohaima M. Ma-amor, highlighting the values of faith, resilience, hope, and personal transformation despite life’s challenges.

Participants actively engaged in the sharing session and open forum, where they openly shared personal reflections, experiences, and messages of gratitude. The activity also included the distribution of personal hygiene kits and assistance packages through the combined support of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos – National Capital Region and the Province of Lanao del Sur. The program concluded with closing remarks delivered by AFD Chief Alfarah A. Adiong, CPA, who conveyed appreciation to all partners, participants, and personnel whose collective efforts contributed to the successful conduct of the activity.

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos – National Capital Region likewise expresses its sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Province of Lanao del Sur under the leadership of Governor Mamintal "Bombit" Adiong Jr. for its invaluable support, generosity, and partnership in making the activity meaningful, impactful, and successful.

Also present during the activity were SEDD Chief Rehamna P. Mama, SI 3 Azlenor A. Macapundag, DMO II Norhajira Barodi, Johaira B. Nanak, Rohanisah Manalusug, Zackaria Mamayandug, and Hanini Gampong.

𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐄𝐗𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐈𝐃 𝐓𝐎 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐃 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐋𝐈𝐌 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓

25 MAY 2026 | A concerned Muslim Filipino parent sought urgent legal assistance at the NCMF-NCR Regional Office regarding a recent traffic accident involving his son. According to the client, his son was riding a motorcycle when he was involved in a collision that resulted in severe physical injuries, maintaining that the incident occurred entirely without his son's fault. Seeking a clear path forward, the parent requested comprehensive legal options and official intervention from the Commission.

Acting on the immediate directives of NCMF-NCR Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos, Jr., M.D., CESE, the Legal Affairs Division promptly attended to the client.

LAD Chief Atty. Jamael Batugan Jr., and Atty. Imran Pangilinan conducted a thorough interview to assess the merits of the case and provided sound, actionable legal advice tailored to protect the victim's rights and welfare.

To ensure the family is fully supported during this challenging time, the Legal Affairs Division formally committed its continuous assistance. The Office reassured the client that NCMF-NCR stands ready to extend further legal services and representation should their chosen course of action require formal legal intervention.

Alhamdulillah!

𝐍𝐂𝐌𝐅-𝐍𝐂𝐑 𝐄𝐗𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒 𝐓𝐄𝐂𝐇𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐓𝐎 𝐌𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐒𝐈𝐀𝐍 𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋

25 MAY 2026 | The NCMF-NCR Regional Office, headed by Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu-Ramos Jr., M.D., CESE, successfully extended transportation assistance to Malaysian Muslim brother Mr. Mohd R.B.A., 59 years old, from Sabah, Malaysia, following the collapse of a 9-story building in Brgy. Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga, where four people have been confirmed dead.

Authorities are still working to locate those reported missing as rescue teams race against time amid unstable debris and the risk of further collapse.

The Malaysian Embassy coordinated with NCMF-NCR through COS Atty. Hassanal Abdurahim for patient transport services and the transfer of the cadaver to the Taguig Blue Mosque in observance of the Islamic ritual of washing a deceased Muslim, which is a vital community obligation before the cadaver is transported back to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

NCMF-NCR Regional Director Datu Ramos instructed the MSD team, led by Chief Junainah Nuska and Saladine L. Balt, DMO III, along with Akrimal A. Jukuy, ADAS III – BMEA/SJDM Salaam Police Advocacy Group City President, and Abdirrahim Dagloc, who successfully facilitated and provided assistance.

Officials from the Malaysian Embassy ensured proper coordination, documentation, and handling procedures to guarantee the smooth and respectful transfer of the cadaver in accordance with the existing Law on transporting a foreign cadaver from the Philippines (exporting/repatriation) which requires compliance with both Philippine exit protocols and the destination country's import laws. The process is primarily regulated by the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), the embassy of the deceased's home country, and the airline.