Bismillahir Rahmaneer Raheem

The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission joins the nation for the kick-off celebration of the National Women’s Month with the theme: “WE for Gender Equity and Inclusive Society.”

As the Gender and Development Ombud of the Bangsamoro, we continue to be steadfast in our commitment to promoting, protecting, and fulfilling the human rights of every woman in the region. We are fully aware of the various challenges that women face, and we are determined to ensure that their status, rights, and interests are upheld in accordance with existing laws, as well as the Qur’an and the Sunnah.

While there are several laws in the Bangsamoro and in the Philippines that protect the rights of women, such as but not limited to, the Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act No. 9710); the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act (Republic Act No. 9262); and the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act (Republic Act No. 7877), may we also emphasize that Islam places great importance on the rights of women. The Qur’an and the Sunnah contain several verses and hadiths that promote the rights of women and women’s empowerment. For instance:

1. “And do not covet what Allah has given to some of you over others. Men have a share of what they have earned, and women have a share of what they have earned.” (Qur’an 4:32)
2. “The best of you are those who are best to their women.” (Hadith)
3. “Women are the twin halves of men.” (Hadith)
4. “Whoever has a daughter and he does not bury her alive, or insult her, or favor his son over her, Allah will enter him into Paradise.” (Hadith)

These verses and hadiths emphasize the importance of treating women with respect and dignity and recognizing their rights and worth. As the human rights institution of the Bangsamoro, we strive to uphold these principles in our work and our advocacy for women’s rights.

Hence, as we celebrate the National Women’s Month, we invite everyone to join us in our efforts to create a more just and equitable society for all. Together, we can build a Bangsamoro that truly values and respects the rights of every woman.