Manila breaks ground for first Muslim cemetery

MANILA, Philippines — Muslim residents in Manila will soon have their own cemetery as the city government held the groundbreaking rites for the P49.3-million project on Wednesday.

The 2,400-square-meter burial ground for Muslims, which will also feature a cultural hall, is located at the Manila South Cemetery.

“By building this cemetery, we can ensure that the appropriate requirements of burying their loved ones that conform to their beliefs and tradition can be complied with,” Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said.

He added that the project was “long overdue” and a “small effort” to recognize Muslims and make them feel they belong to the city.