ISABELA CITY, BASILAN – Over 3,000 madaris representatives gathered at Lamitan City Gym to witness the launch of Basilan’s first Provincial Madaris Development Council (PMDC), aimed at transforming Islamic education and empowering youth for sustainable development.
Basilan Provincial Governor Mujiv Hataman signs the Executive Order No. 2026-06, formally establishing the PMDC under the Office of the Provincial Governor.
In his speech, Hataman emphasized the importance of institutional support for madaris schools as a vital component of the province’s educational landscape.
Unity starts in Madrasah,” he declared.
He outlined measures to strengthen the sector, including the provision of uniform subsidies to all madrasah teachers, the launch of facility construction projects expected latel this year, and collaboration with the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council and other agencies to elevate Basilan’s status as a national model for madaris education by 2026.
Hataman underscored that the PMDC would help solidify the foundation of Islamic education in Basilan, ensuring a brighter future for the youth and fostering sustainable development.
This initiative aligns with the Bangsamoro Education Code (BAA No. 18), which recognizes madaris as an integral part of the formal education system in the region. Through the formation of the PMDC, Basilan is putting this law into action by providing funding support for madaris teachers and infrastructure development.
The PMDC will serve as the central body overseeing all madaris development programs in the province. It is headed by the Provincial Governor, with the Vice Governor serving as Vice Chairperson. Members include representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd) Basilan, the CHED-BARMM Regional Office, local madaris leaders, the Provincial Treasurer, and the Planning and Development Coordinator.
The council aims to align provincial madaris plans with national policies and preserve Islamic heritage. It will supervise infrastructure mobilization, ensure academic quality, and develop clear career pathways for graduates, whether into mainstream education or community leadership roles.
The launch garnered support from various sectors, including government officials, religious leaders, and security forces.
Abdulmuhmin Muhajid, Vice Chairperson of the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council, highlighted the pivotal role of madaris in provincial progress.
Mujahid Muhajid shared that there are 370 madaris operating across the 255 barangays of Basilan which are a testament to the government’s commitment to strengthening Islamic learning for the youth.
Ustadz Alzad Sattar called the PMDC a “game changer,” emphasizing that the curriculum will be made relevant and responsive to community needs.
Security forces also expressed their support, recognizing the council’s role in addressing literacy gaps and promoting peace through education.
Madaris serve as vital centers for preserving religious heritage and fostering spiritual and moral growth within communities. The creation of the PMDC is a strategic step toward long-term peace and stability in Basilan, integrating Islamic values with academic development.
By empowering madaris and aligning efforts with national and regional policies, Basilan aims to ensure that its growth remains rooted in cultural identity while preparing its youth for a brighter future.
As Basilan strives to become a national model, the PMDC stands as a testament to how local governance can address complex challenges through cultural pride and educational empowerment. (JPA/NDR/MVE/PIA Basilan with reports from the Provincial Government)
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