By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – First Congressional District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, through his son Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, assisted almost 30 Muslim communities under the first district in observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
The First Congressional District Office started the distribution of the 576 sacks of rice and cash aid to beneficiaries from April 4 (Thursday) to April 5 (Friday). More than 1,000 members from Tausug, Iranun, Maguindanao, and Maranao, among other tribes, will benefit from the assistance.
“Daghang salamat (Thank you very much), Congressman Pulong. Amoa ning i-apud-apod sa 100 kapin ka pamilya nga among sakop aron ang tanan makakaon (We will distribute this to over 100 families in our area so everyone can eat),” said Imam Jun-Jun Pandadagan, of San Rafael Mosque.
Imam Noli Distansya of the Datu Loho Madrasato Al-Islamie echoed Imam Pandadagan. He also vowed to split the assistance to more than 200 families in their area so everyone would have a fair share of sustenance in the holy month.
Masjid Jamiun Nur’s Imam Ismael Tahir, who also has over 200 members in their village in Bangkal, and the rest of the Muslim leaders echoed Imam Pandadagan and Imam Distansya. Tahir said Rep. Duterte has always been supportive to the Muslim community, especially during Ramadan.
Imam Emran Maongco, from a Muslim Village in Bankerohan, highlighted the significance of Ramadan for them to grow spiritually and build a stronger relationship with Allah. Meanwhile, Eidul Fitr is a thanksgiving celebration to Allah and marks the end of the month-long fast.
The lawmaker has instructed the assistance distribution to Muslim communities during Ramadan, respecting and supporting them in this holy month, which started last month and will end on April 10, 2024. He said Ramadan is the time for deep reflection, prayer, and contemplation.
On behalf of his father, Rigo interacted with Muslim leaders and members. He expressed support and aligned himself with its efforts to achieve a common objective of constructing a society that embraces diversity and inclusivity. He also thanked them for their support of the Duterte family. (Photo courtesy of Cong. Palulo Duterte’s office)