Marcos lauded for approving Muslim celebration

MANILA, Philippines — Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman expressed gratitude to President Marcos for signing an administrative order constituting a steering committee for the commemoration of the 650th Anniversary of Philippine Muslim History and Heritage.

“I thank President Marcos for signing the AO constituting the Situmiayat Wakhamsun Aldhikraa National Committee which shall take charge of the preparations for this celebration even as early as now,” Pangandaman said.

“The Committee, chaired by the Executive Secretary, with the NHCP (National Historical Commission of the Philippines) as vice chair and with DBM as one of its members, will undertake the overall study, conceptualization, and implementation of programs and projects relevant to the commemoration,” she added.

Also known as project “650PH in 2030,” the initiative will mark the 650 years of Islamic presence in the Philippines in 2030. The NHCP aims to launch its commemoration in 2024.

The President’s signing of the AO coincides with the celebration of the 643rd Sheikh Makhdum Day and the Unveiling of the historical marker of the Sheikh Makhdum Mosque in Simunul, Tawi-Tawi on Nov. 7.