Bangsamoro Region Prepares 451 Former Combatants for 2026 Hajj Pilgrimage
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is advancing a significant initiative to send 451 former combatants to Mecca for the 2026 Hajj through its Manasikul Hajj Program. This effort is intensifying with comprehensive health, logistics, and religious orientation support ahead of the pilgrimage, marking a key component of the regional government's reintegration strategy for former Moro fighters.
Manasikul Hajj Program: Spiritual and Social Support
Led by the Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority (BPA), the Manasikul Hajj Program offers selected beneficiaries subsidized or fully funded access to the Hajj, one of Islam's five pillars. The program also provides guidance through proper ritual performance via manasik or orientation sessions, ensuring participants are spiritually prepared for this sacred journey.
This initiative underscores the Bangsamoro Government's commitment to supporting former combatants through inclusive measures that blend spiritual fulfillment with social reintegration. Beyond facilitating the pilgrimage, the program aligns with the region's broader peacebuilding and normalization agenda, aimed at helping former fighters transition into peaceful civilian life.
Health Preparations and Vaccination Drive
In preparation for departure, beneficiaries underwent a vaccination rollout from April 13 to 15 at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex in Cotabato City. This activity was conducted under a Regional Mobile Vaccination initiative spearheaded by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF)–Bureau of Pilgrimage and Endowment, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Cotabato City Health Office.
Vaccination is a mandatory requirement imposed by Saudi authorities to protect pilgrims from infectious diseases during the Hajj, which annually gathers millions of Muslims worldwide. Compliance with immunization protocols, including vaccines against meningococcal disease, is required by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah before entry into the holy sites.
Dr. Norodin Salam, BPA Deputy Executive Director, emphasized that vaccination is both a medical necessity and part of a pilgrim's spiritual preparation. He stated, "Part of our intention is this vaccination. And it is not only for the Hajj, but we also need it for our health."
Logistical and Orientation Support
The vaccination drive is part of a broader effort to inoculate 1,091 pilgrims from Region 12 and BARMM, ensuring they meet international health standards prior to travel. Dr. Tamara Mae Ansama, Medical Officer III of the NCMF–Bureau of Pilgrimage and Endowment, noted that the 451 former combatants constitute approximately nine percent of the total Filipino pilgrims for Hajj 2026.
The pilgrimage is scheduled from 8 to 12 Dhul-Hijjah, approximately May 25 to 29, subject to official moon sighting. To ensure overall readiness, the NCMF conducted a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS), covering travel procedures, health requirements, and religious guidelines.
Government partners, including the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and the Ministry of Health, provided logistical assistance as well as travel and post-vaccination kits, further supporting the pilgrims' journey.
This comprehensive approach highlights the Bangsamoro Government's dedication to fostering peace and stability through initiatives that address both the spiritual and practical needs of former combatants, contributing to long-term reintegration and community harmony.
