In a significant milestone for Islamic education in the region, a total of 250 Madrasah students graduated on Saturday, February 11, 2026. The ceremony was organized by the Madrasah Comprehensive Development and Promotion Unit (MCDPU) of Davao City, marking its 14th presentation of traditional Madrasah graduates at the Almendras Gym Davao City Recreation Center.
Celebrating Achievements and Commitment
The event served as a platform to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of elementary, high school, and college Traditional Madrasah graduates from across the city. It also underscored the city government's unwavering dedication to fostering an educational environment that is inclusive, culturally responsive, and rooted in strong values.
Purpose and Impact of Madrasah Education
In an interview with the City Information Office, Shayk Jamal S. Munib, MCDPU's executive program director, emphasized the core mission of Madrasah education. He stated, "[Ang purpose ng Madarasah] is ang mga estudyante dito mabigyan sila ng true teachings in Islam (Madrasah is meant to provide Muslim students in the city with the true teachings of Islam)."
Traditional Madrasah programs are designed to prepare Muslim children to become assiduous and committed Muslims, equipping them with social, moral, intellectual, and religious education. This holistic approach aims to benefit not only the individuals but also their families and communities.
Contributions to Peace and Security
Munib highlighted one of the most significant contributions of Madrasah to the community, noting, "Yung contribution ng Madrasah sa community natin is on peace and security because is Madrasah kapag naintindihan mo talaga ang true teachings ng Islam, magiging law-abiding citizen ka (One of the biggest contributions of Madrasah in the community is anchored on peace and security because once you understand the true teachings of Islam, you'll be a law-abiding citizen)."
Gratitude and Inclusivity
Salman Sugaran Sameon, an Islamic Studies graduate from the Eastern Mindanao Islamic Academy, expressed profound gratitude to the City Government of Davao for its consistent support to the Muslim community. He praised the city's focus on inclusive growth and development, stating, "Malaki po ang naitulong nila sa amin kasi dito sa Davao walang barrier sa pagitan ng Muslim at ano ma'ng relihiyon at 'yon po'y isang daan upang mapakita at mapakilala namin ang Muslim 'di lang dito sa Davao Kundi sa buong mundo (The City Government significantly helped us, especially because here in Davao, there are no religious barriers [but] showcase and introduce Muslims not only here in Davao but throughout the world)."
Ongoing Initiatives and Enrollment
The MCDPU continues to actively implement programs and initiatives tailored for the Muslim youth in Davao City. Recent developments include the creation of a Madrasah textbook specifically for elementary Madrasah students, enhancing the educational resources available.
Currently, the city boasts over 4,000 Traditional Madrasah students enrolled in various Madrasah institutions, reflecting a robust and growing commitment to Islamic education. This ongoing effort underscores the city's role in promoting cultural understanding and academic excellence within the Muslim community.
