Muntinlupa City opens Muslim affairs office

MANILA, Philippines — Those of the Muslim faith now have a more established representation in Muntinlupa, with the city government creating a special office to cater to the Muslim culture and social needs.

In a recent executive order, Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi authorized the creation of the Muntinlupa City Muslims Affairs Office (MCMAO), to implement programs and activities for the welfare of Muslims in the city.

“This is a landmark measure for us in that we recognize the role of Muslims in the development of Muntinlupa,” Fresnedi said, in a statement.

An immediate task for the MCMAO will be to determine the city’s Muslim population and encourage existing Islamic organizations to apply for accreditation and help with the drafting of the office’s projects.

While actively promoting Muslim traditions and customs, one of the major goals of the MCMAO will also be to help Muslim residents secure stable employment and a good education for their children in the city.

Fresnedi is set to appoint an executive director and two staff personnel for the office.

“It is our goal that the MCMAO will empower Muslim Muntinlupeños significantly to become productive citizens of our city,” Fresnedi said.