Cebu Muslims seek special registration

CEBU, Philippines - The regional Office on Muslims Affairs will ask the Commission on Elections for a special registration for Muslims in Cebu.

Speaking before Muslims leaders in Central Visayas, OMA Regional Director Sakiran Hajan said he wants all Muslims to be registered, as it is every Muslim’s duty and responsibility to vote during elections.

"We will ask guidance from the Comelec…We live here. We are doing business here. Mindanao is now only our second home. We have to be registered in order for us to vote our leaders in the coming election," Hajan said during yesterday’s thanksgiving celebration of Eidl Fitr. 

Hajan said next year’s elections is very crucial, thus, all Muslims must be able to vote. 

The country will experience the very first nationwide fully-automated elections next year, from counting of votes, transmission and canvassing.

Also yesterday, OMA officially launched the proposed Cebu Grand Mosque and Islamic Complex, which will be constructed at the South Road Properties. The city government itself donated the 2.5 hectare lot on which the mosque and complex would rise.

The building is estimated to cost between $4 million to $5 million.

Hajan said all employees of OMA have reportedly agreed to donate a portion of their salary to help fund the needed amount for construction. He also urged all Muslims in Central Visayas to give donations.

"Ito ay ang pinakamahirap at pinakamasarap nating proyekto. Beginning today, it is an obligation of every Muslim in Central Visayas to donate in order for us to have this project. Kahit piso-piso araw-araw para lang magkaroon tayo nang pondo," Hajan said.

He also asked his fellow Muslim leaders to come up with fund raising projects. – Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)