Philippine House of Representatives Opens First Permanent Prayer Hall for Muslims

Philippine House of Representatives Opens First Permanent Prayer Hall for Muslims
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The House of Representatives of the Philippines inaugurated its first permanent prayer hall for Muslims on February 16, 2026, at its headquarters in Manila, marking an institutional step toward recognizing religious identity and promoting inclusion within one of the country’s key legislative bodies.

The prayer hall was opened in the building’s northern wing, occupying Rooms 616 and 617. The initiative was led by Bai Dimple Mastura, chair of the Committee on Muslim Affairs, and carried out under the supervision of Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. Officials said the move aims to support religious practice and foster a workplace environment that respects religious diversity while meeting the needs of Muslim staff and visitors.

The inauguration ceremony included recitations from the Holy Quran delivered by Hassan Aguil, and proceedings were moderated by Abdulhakim Lomondot, a representative of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos. Several officials delivered remarks highlighting the significance of the initiative, including Marie Antoinette Arcega-de los Santos, the spouse of the House Speaker, and Dato Ahmad Tukao Ong Mastura, governor of Maguindanao del Norte, both of whom emphasized support for religious rights and peaceful coexistence.

The event concluded with remarks by Dada Ismaula, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by senior officials of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and representatives of Islamic cultural institutions.

Officials said the establishment of a permanent prayer hall within parliament reflects the Philippine state’s commitment to supporting the religious well-being of Muslims and strengthening their inclusion in public institutions, particularly as the Muslim community continues to play a growing role in national life, especially in southern regions such as Mindanao and the Bangsamoro.