“The hijab has long been a symbol of cultural and religious pride for women—a source of empowerment. Today, as we celebrate World Hijab Day, we also create space for thoughtful dialogue and deeper understanding. World Hijab Day envisions a world united through our diversity.”
These were the powerful words of Dr. Lorraine Symaco, Vice President for Academic Affairs of the University of the Philippines Diliman, delivered during her welcome remarks at the public forum “Hijab & Dignity: Faith, Identity, and Choice,” held on February 2, 2026, at the GT Toyota Asian Center Auditorium, UP Diliman, Quezon City.
World Hijab Day, observed annually every February 1, alongside the National Day of Awareness on Hijab and Other Traditional Garments and Attire under Republic Act No. 12224, aims to promote inclusivity, cultural appreciation, and mutual respect. The observance seeks to raise awareness of the cultural and religious significance of the hijab and other traditional forms of attire, while fostering understanding across diverse communities.
Building on this message of inclusivity, Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi, Dean of the UP Institute of Islamic Studies, emphasized the importance of viewing differences not as sources of division but as a unifying force that contributes to the nation’s collective growth. He underscored that the advancement of women’s rights begins with recognizing the full dignity of women’s identities and womanhood within a culturally plural society–one that allows diversity to be harnessed as a source of national strength.
Conducted in partnership with the Office of Senator Robin Padilla, which championed the passage of Republic Act No. 12224, the forum featured a panel discussion with Muslim women leaders actively engaged in promoting and implementing the law, while addressing the discrimination faced by women, particularly Muslim women who wear the hijab. The panelists included Commissioner Faydah Dumarpa of the Commission on Human Rights, Undersecretary Fatim Aliah Dimapora of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Mayor Sitti Djalia Hataman of Isabela City, Basilan, and Ms. Queenie Padilla, a hijabi advocate and vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause.
Moderated by award-winning journalist Ms. Jamela Alindogan, the discussion underscored the urgent need to strengthen the implementation of Republic Act No. 12224 and address persistent gaps where discrimination remains prevalent, particularly at the grassroots level and in workplace settings. The panel also highlighted the critical role of representation, emphasizing how Muslim women in leadership positions serve as vital voices for their communities and catalysts for inclusive policy-making.
This call for greater representation and solidarity was further reinforced through statements delivered after the panel discussion. Congresswoman Sittie Shahara Mastura of Maguindanao del Norte and Architect Marjorie Duran-Lee Oliver, Vice Chairperson of the Senate Gender and Development Focal Point System, expressed their strong support for the law, acknowledged the continuing realities of discrimination, and emphasized the importance of legislative, institutional, and development initiatives in addressing these challenges.
In his closing remarks, Senator Robin Padilla reiterated the importance of solidarity, both within the Muslim community and beyond, stressing that collective action, mutual respect, and understanding are essential in safeguarding dignity, faith, and identity.
Attended by approximately 400 participants, the gathering brought together representatives from the Senate and Congress, ambassadors of select countries in the Philippines, officials from national and local government agencies and the University of the Philippines, members of civil society and interfaith groups, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine Coast Guard, religious leaders, Muslim women’s organizations, and academic institutions.
The event forms part of the Gender and Development (GAD) Program of the UP Institute of Islamic Studies and contributes to the advancement of Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality.
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Article by: Camille Lucille Bello | Photos by: Marlon Pervera and Armerham Nasir