Senate okays bill declaring Feb. 1 as nat’l day of awareness on hijab

MANILA, Philippines — The proposal to declare every first day of February as the National Day of Awareness on the Hijab and Other Traditional Garments and Attire is a step closer to becoming a law.

With 21 affirmative votes, the Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading the bill that aims “to promote diversity, awareness, and tolerance of religious and cultural beliefs expressed through the wearing of indigenous clothing, head garments, and coverings.”

This also marked a milestone in the lawmaking stint of neophyte Senator Robin Padilla since it is the first Senate-approved bill that he authored and sponsored in the 19th Congress.

Padilla welcomed the approval of the bill, saying it is a gain not just for the Muslim community but also for every Filipino seeking a deeper understanding of cultural, traditional, and religious differences.

READ: Padilla wants Feb. 1 observed as National Hijab Day

“Sa ating paghahangad ng isang lipunang walang diskriminasyon, napakahalagang kilalanin at harapin – hindi takasan at iwasan – ang mga partikular na hamon na kinakaharap ng isang komunidad,” he said.

(In our bid for a society free from discrimination, it is very important to recognize and face – not escape and avoid – particular challenges faced by a community.)

The legislator reiterated recognizing the plight of one group does not, in effect, diminish the importance of another group’s situation.

“Sa halip, malinaw ang ating mithiin – ang pagpapalakas ng boses ng mga nangangailangan para isulong ang tunay na pagkakapantay-pantay,” Padilla said.

(Instead, our objective is clear – to amplify the voice of those in need so we can push for real equality.)

In November last year, House of Representatives unanimously approved a similar bill that declared every February 1 as National Hijab Day.

READ: House OKs bill declaring National Hijab Day every Feb. 1

APL