Senate okays bill on multi-faith prayer rooms

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go welcomed the Senate’s approval on third reading of Senate Bill No. 1629, or the proposed Multi-Faith Prayer and Quiet Rooms Act, which seeks to establish inclusive spaces for prayer and reflection in public offices.

The approval coincided with the start of Ramadan, highlighting the importance of sensitivity to religious practices, particularly among Muslim Filipinos, Go said.

“Many Filipinos have deep faith. When they are in offices or public places, there should be a proper and quiet space where they can pray or reflect,” Go said.

He stressed that the proposal does not favor any single religion.

“This is not for one belief alone. The goal is to provide a space open to all —regardless of religion or even for those who simply wish to reflect or rest briefly during work,” he said.

Under the measure, government agencies are required to designate neutral prayer and quiet rooms free of permanent religious symbols. Users may bring personal religious items for temporary use.

Go said the bill promotes respect, understanding, and inclusivity in shared public spaces.