In full support of the city’s Muslim community, Mayor John Dalipe convened on Thursday a coordination meeting in preparation for the upcoming Congregational Prayer in celebration of Eid’l Fitr, culminating the fasting month of Ramadan.
The discussion centered on the proposed executive order that Mayor Dalipe will issue to ensure an orderly and peaceful celebration of Hariraya Puasa by the Muslims in the city, the exact date of which, however, depends on sighting of the moon.
Under the proposed EO, the Legionnaire Street will be temporarily closed to give space to thousands of Muslims who are expected to converge for prayer at the mosque in Sta. Barbara.
Similarly, another congregational prayer will be held at the JFE Memorial Sports Complex.
Parking areas and security measures will also be provided for both prayer venues from 4am to 10am of either April 21 or April 22, pending the official announcement by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).
City Administrator Mario Yanga presided over the meeting together with Executive Assistant on Muslim Affairs Abdulbaki Sandag, Engr. Alvin Manuel and representatives of the different Muslim groups, police and Task Force Zamboanga.
Early on, Mayor Dalipe has convened the first meeting of the Zamboanga City Interfaith Council pursuant to Ordinance 420. (Vic Larato, photo courtesy by Kathy Wee Sit)
(Source: City Government of Zamboanga Facebook page)