ARMM governor signs law creating religious authority

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman. FILE PHOTO

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Governor Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has signed a law mandating the creation of a religious authority, Darul Ifta, in the ARMM to help address contemporary issues faced by Filipino Muslims.

Hataman said the creation of the Darul Ifta in the ARMM, which he signed signed on Wednesday would boost good governance and would help unite all Bangsamoro people in the ARMM.

The Darul Ifta or the Islamic advisory council, will promulgate or issue legal opinions (fatwa) pertaining to Muslim personal laws and jurisprudence pursuant to Article VIII, Section 20 of Republic Act 9054 or the act strengthening and expanding the organic act for the ARMM. It will also serve as consultant to the regional government of the ARMM and the Regional Legislative Assembly on matters pertaining to Islamic laws, jurisprudence and ecclesiastical matters, the “religious guide” of ARMM leaders, bureaucrats and professionals, including those in the local government units.

Hataman said ARMM has earmarked P5 million for the initial operation of the Darul Ifta. The Local Appropriations Act will provide for its succeeding annual budget.

The new regional law also calls for the establishment of provincial Darul Ifta, each headed by a provincial mufti, in the five provinces of the ARMM. The provincial mufti will be chosen from among the resident ulama (religious leaders) in each of the provinces.  SFM