DAVAO CITY, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte warned the Commission on Audit (COA) against meddling in the move to redirect housing funds to the pilgrimage of Muslims affected by the Marawi Siege.
Speaking in a post-Eid’l Fitr dinner here on Thursday, Duterte urged COA to understand the social and cultural reasons behind the decision to use P5 million from the P500-million fund allotted to the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) through Task Force Bangon Marawi.
“Sabihin ko wag mo masyadong pakialaman yan (I tell you, don’t meddle in this matter),” Duterte told COA.
The President asserted that the Hajj or the annual pilgrimage of Muslims to Mecca is more important than housing.
“You can forget about the housing there that are being planned by the government,” Duterte said, adding that a Muslim would prefer the pilgrimage over a mansion.
“A simple token of generosity na makapunta sya, maka-Hajj, mas importante sa kanya yan,” the President stressed.
(It’s a simple token of generosity that you allow him to participate in the Hajj. That is more important to him.)
The President explained that the P5 million is meant to “enhance the travel” of poor and old Muslims “to fulfill a lifetime dream.”
Highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity, the President challenged COA to be grounded on culture in its actions and decisions.
“Sometimes you have to take into consideration this so-called culture,” Duterte said.
He shared that he started funding pilgrimages for Muslims since he entered Davao City’s politics in 1988. It was a program that is still being continued by his daughter, Mayor Sara Duterte.
“Ngayon kung ipareimburse mo yan saan man ako maghanap ng pera eh di magpakulong na lang ako (If you want it reimbursed, where will I find the money? You better put me in prison),” Duterte said.
The President said that Mindanao will revolt if HUDCC chief Eduardo Del Rosario, Mayor Duterte, and himself are imprisoned for this.
“Kapag mapreso ako, magrevolt ulit kami dito sa Mindanao. Kayo bahala (If I am jailed, we in Mindanao will revolt. It’s up to you),” Duterte said. (Editor: Eden Estopace)
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