Senator Christopher “Bong” Go is advocating for increased funding to support Filipino Muslims, pushing for greater allocations to the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF). This funding will provide essential assistance to Hajj pilgrims and enhance the overall welfare of Muslim communities across the country.

In a recent statement, Senator Go emphasized the importance of supporting Filipino Muslims, particularly in their religious obligation to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage.

“Napakahalaga na mabigyan ng tamang suporta ang ating mga kababayang Muslim, lalo na’t bahagi ng kanilang pananampalataya ang paglalakbay para sa Hajj. Hindi ito simpleng biyaheng pang-personal; ito ay bahagi ng kanilang paniniwala at pagkakakilanlan bilang mga Muslim (It is very important to provide the right support to our Muslim fellow Filipinos, especially since the pilgrimage to Hajj is a part of their faith. This is not just a personal journey; it is a part of their beliefs and identity as Muslims),” he said.

The Senator’s initiative aims to expand the support mechanisms for Hajj pilgrims by offering subsidies and logistical assistance. These measures are designed to ease the financial burden on Filipino Muslims who wish to fulfill one of their key religious obligations. Furthermore, the additional funding will also be directed towards broader community programs that aim to ensure the inclusion of Muslim Filipinos in national development efforts.

“Hindi dapat mapag-iwanan ang kahit sinong Pilipino. Kailangan nating tiyakin na ang serbisyo ng gobyerno ay abot-kamay ng lahat, anuman ang relihiyon o kultura (No Filipino should be left behind. We must ensure that government services are accessible to everyone, regardless of religion or culture),” Senator Go emphasized, highlighting the government’s role in fostering inclusivity and representation in governance.

Senator Go also stressed the importance of integrating healthcare services into community programs to address the holistic needs of Filipino Muslims. “Kung maisasama natin ang kalusugan sa mga programa ng NCMF, mas makakabuti ito sa ating mga kababayan. Hindi lang pisikal na kalusugan ang pinag-uusapan, kundi pati mental at spiritual health na mahalaga rin sa kanilang pang-araw-araw na buhay (If we can integrate healthcare into the programs of the NCMF, it will greatly benefit our fellow Filipinos. It’s not just physical health that we’re talking about, but also mental and spiritual health, which are equally important in their daily lives),” he explained.