The Philippine House of Representatives (HOR) looked different on Monday, its main gallery more vibrant than on ordinary session days.
Women Muslim members of the country’s bigger legislative chamber offered colourful head veils to fellow women representatives in observance of the Philippines’ first-ever World Hijab Day Celebration.
The hijabs were gladly accepted and worn by HOR members from the chamber’s five Muslim women members in one of the most unique expression of unity in a body that is more used to fractious debates and political divisions.
There are 90 women members among 318 district and partylist representatives in the 20th Congress of the country that is 80% Catholic and 6% Muslim.
In a speech at the plenary hall, Maguindanao del Norte Rep. Sittie Shahara Bai Dimple Mastura underscored the importance of faith, modesty, and empowerment in Muslim women’s identity.
Mastura, chairperson of the chamber’s Committee on Muslim Affairs, said the hijab is an expression of religious freedom, cultural identity, and dignity, and should not be a basis for discrimination.
The Philippines passed Republic Act No. 12224 last June 18, 2025 declaring the first day of February annually as the National Day of Awareness on Hijab and Other Traditional Garments and Attire.
Mastura traced the origins of World Hijab Day to its founding in 2013 by Bangladeshi-American activist Nazma Khan, noting that the initiative aims to promote understanding by encouraging women of all backgrounds to experience wearing the hijab.
The first-ever Hijab Day and Halal Festival however was observed on February 2 as February 1 was a Sunday, a non-working day in the Philippines.
Mastura however raised concern over reports of continued discrimination against hijab-wearing women, including cases in which students were allegedly barred from wearing hijab in some schools.
She stressed that such practices run counter to inclusivity and respect for religious expression.
Mastura called for greater awareness and understanding among Filipinos, emphasizing that respect for diversity is essential to building peace and social cohesion.
Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Sarah Elago enthusiastically participated in the hijab wearing, along with fellow Makabayan Coalition member Renee Co.
“This representation joined the activity to express our solidarity in advancing the interests and welfare of Muslim women,” Elago said. # (Raymund B. Villanueva)
