Philippines: Hijab Restrictions at College Spark Controversy, Prompting Official Complaint

Philippines: Hijab Restrictions at College Spark Controversy, Prompting Official Complaint
—————————
A reported restriction on wearing the hijab at Iligan Medical Center College (IMCC) in Northern Mindanao, Philippines, has sparked controversy, prompting the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) to file a complaint with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on November 4.

The complaints came from Muslim nursing students who said they were required to remove their hijabs during certain activities, including capping ceremonies and clinical duties. Muslim student groups and religious advocates have called on the college to respect women’s religious practices.

However, IMCC denied imposing any such ban, stating that throughout its 51-year history, it has never prohibited students from wearing hijabs on campus.

Ustadz Abdul Jabbar Montañer, one of the complainants, said consultations with students, graduates and prospective applicants indicated that the issue had been a longstanding concern. He added that some prospective students reportedly chose not to enrol after learning they might be asked to remove their headscarves during certain activities.