The Iloilo provincial government has committed P6.4 million to build the first Madrasah facility in Western Visayas, located in Sara town. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide Muslim students with an education that respects their cultural and religious identity.
A Step Toward Inclusive Education
The Madrasah Education Program (MEP) facility, set to be constructed at Sara Central Elementary School, will offer a two-classroom space dedicated to Islamic instruction. The official turnover of funds took place during the March 10 flag-raising ceremony at the provincial capitol, where provincial officials, including Provincial School Board Secretary Ma. Freda Sabanal-Fajardo and Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, handed over the check to key stakeholders, including school principal Nancy Batobalani and DepEd MEP coordinator Liza Balogo.
This project aligns with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.’s "Bulig Eskwela sang Probinsya" initiative, which ensures that educational programs are tailored to the cultural and religious needs of diverse communities. The Madrasah facility will include culturally appropriate features, such as a reading nook and prayer room, to accommodate the five daily prayers observed by Muslim students.
Supporting Cultural Heritage with Additional Projects
In a parallel effort, Iloilo has allocated P8 million to build a School of Living Traditions (SLT) in Calinog town. The SLT will serve as a learning center for Indigenous Peoples' (IP) traditions, featuring spaces for cultural performances, an artifact gallery, and areas for elders. Additionally, the building will function as an evacuation center during emergencies.
These initiatives demonstrate Iloilo's commitment to inclusive education that supports both Muslim and Indigenous learners, ensuring that their cultural heritage is preserved while receiving quality education.
