Female fighting

THE dream of access to education for all remains. UP President Jijil Jimenez, the first Mindanaoan to be appointed to the post, graciously hosted Muslim heads of offices one week before Ramadan on this plea to partner and collaborate to bring Mindanao to higher heights through the academe.

I saw a journalist shed tears while listening to Jimenez’s impassioned speech on overcoming the barriers for the far-flung.

We were co-hosted that night at the Executive House, UP Diliman, by the Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy and UP Law School professor Salma Rasul.

Another event was a Women’s Ramadan assembly at the Cuneta Astrodome. The forum reminded us of the value of sacrifice during the month-long fasting period.

Back in Mindanao, there was a whirl of women’s events. The MSU-IIT Iligan Muslim Students Association (Mimsa) hosted “EmpowerHER: Unleashing Women’s Potential.” Academic Norjannah Ampaso discussed Maranao culture. In traditional ways, women are protected and loved (“pakatatayaan”), not obligated to provide for their families, and are both respected (“pagaadatan”) and honored (“s’slaan”). The prohibition of physical contact, even by the fingertips, unless married, signifies the depth of respect. Women are considered treasures (“liyamin”).

Our own contribution was to the public participation of women, as proven by other Muslim countries. We highlighted the significance of learning Shariah law and human rights, stressing that this knowledge provides protection against possible harm. Beyond the laws in the Philippine Constitution, our Shariah law encompasses policies that safeguard us in a society facing challenges in upholding moral values. Additionally, the panelist raised the subject of child labor among Muslim women and child trafficking in the BARMM region. With this, the panelist shared the regional action plan for addressing various issues. The concept of conflict within the purview of women, peace and security is broadened to include violent extremism, riots, clan conflicts, etc. The regional government has numerous plans aimed at restoring life to pre-war conditions and improving the way of life for the affected people. This discussion deepens our understanding of the lived realities faced by Muslim women in our society, underscoring the importance of addressing these pressing issues. The Philippines is uniquely the first country to set up a regional action plan for the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.

IPLT Nera Cabrera, chief and WCPD/team leader of the Task Force Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (Osaec) at the Iligan City Police office, delved into the various crucial aspects, including defining human trafficking, elucidating the legal framework, detailing the acts of human trafficking and online sexual exploitation of children, discussing the effects of these crimes, and outlining preventive measures to protect individuals from potential involvement. Furthermore, PLT Cabrera provided information on hotlines and designated offices where incidents of human trafficking and online sexual exploitation of children can be reported. Her expertise and insights enriched the seminar, offering a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges associated with human trafficking and online exploitation.

Ustadha Ibtisam Morales, the final panelist, highlighted the Islamic perspective on women’s empowerment, emphasizing that Allah created both genders with distinct purposes, recognizing only two genders in Islam. Equality extends to both worldly and spiritual benefits, with rewards based on individual deeds. Additionally, the panelist emphasized the importance of selffocus before helping others. The narrative traces the historical shift for women from traditional roles to modern multitasking responsibilities. While acknowledging women’s evolving roles in society, the panelist highlighted a potential violation of Islamic principles when women take on the primary provider role. He said: “One of the techniques for a harmonious life in this dunya is to take on a specific role that you are willing to act on for the rest of your life.” Know your role and purpose in this world. He underscored the significance of benefiting others and self-development and rejected exclusive focus on the afterlife. Islam’s early recognition of women’s rights depicts them as treasures deserving of respect. Most importantly, the lens intensifies the importance of respecting mothers for their pivotal lifelong role.