DAVAO CITY—Bangsamoro women commemorated the World Hijab Day by showcasing ‘strength in wearing a veil’ in Cotabato City.
By wearing a hijab or veil, Muslim women sent a message that fortitude and courage stemmed from wearing it.
The celebration on February 1, according to Bainon Karon, Chairperson of the Bangsamoro Women Commission (BWC), showed unity among women in promoting love and understanding among one another, saying stories of inspiration, empowerment, and determination that lay behind every hijab.
This year’s celebration is themed “Veiled in Strength,” raising awareness not only about the importance of wearing hijab but also fostering understanding of the rich traditions within Muslim cultures.
Karon added that the event highlighted every Bangsamoro woman’s resilience and strength, portraying the hijab as a symbol of a Muslimah, a pillar of protection, and a Muslim woman’s obligation.
She enc0urgaed every Muslim woman “To embrace diversity, challenge stereotypes, and promote understanding and acceptance.”
Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim in his message emphasized that wearing a hijab creates an environment that allows Muslim women to be recognized for their contributions to society and be a part of an inclusive community.
“This year marks another milestone for this global initiative in amplifying the voices of Muslim women while promoting inclusivity, education, and cultural exchange,” Ebrahim said.
He shared that women are truly represented in the Bangsamoro Parliament and the entire workforce in the autonomous region. Sixteen of the members of parliament are women.
In the Philippines, according to February 2023 data presented by the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA), 94.7% of employed individuals are women.
Ahod elaborated that World Hijab Day recognizes the Bangsamoro’s rights to self-determination as Muslims in the Southern Philippines, freely practicing their culture, traditions, and faith.
He urged his constituents to ensure that the rights of Muslim women in the region, as well as in the entire Philippines, are guaranteed and to work towards empowerment, inclusivity, cultural understanding, and social cohesion.
Judy Mae Cagang, a reverted Muslim shared that wearing a veil optimistically helped her transition to Islam.
“Exactly a year ago, I started wearing hijab, and from then on, I felt welcomed in the religion and experienced holistic respect from the people around me,” Cagang said.
She shared “Up to this day, it feels so light and heartwarming to have my hijab on.”
Advancing Bangsamoro women’s welfare and rights through World Hijab Day results in their self-sustaining and inclusive development, which is aligned with Chief Minister Ebrahim’s 12th Priority Agenda. -with a report from Johamin Inok/BIO
