Institute of Islamic Studies, University of the Philippines-Diliman

Facebook Facebook Youtube
Menu

Author: UP Institute of Islamic Studies

In contemporary world permeated by hegemonic Western positivistic sciences which rescinded the important value of ethics, faith traditions and revealed knowledge that have had impacted human lives for several centuries and millennials were relegated to private life. This notion of privatizing civilizational religions, Islam in particular, had created intellectual numbness, apathy and indifference. To bring forth ‘intellectual compassion’ in the arrogant world of Western sciences, the UP Institute of Islamic Studies was created on November 22, 1973 by Presidential Decree 342, as part of the Philippine Center for Advanced Studies (PCAS). Following the abolition of PCAS on July 9, 1979 by virtue of Executive Order No. 543 issued by the then-president of the Philippines, the Institute was re-established as a separate unit of the University.

Categories
News & Archives

UP IIS Welcomes UIN Imam Bonjol Padang Scholars for Seminar on Islam, Modernization, and Reform in Indonesia

Two esteemed professors from the UIN Imam Bonjol Padang, Dr. Zaim Rais and Prof. Winbaktianur, were warmly welcomed as they visited the Institute of Islamic Studies at the University of the Philippines Diliman to serve as lecturers for a seminar on “Islam, Modernization, and Reform in Indonesia: Parallelism and Context in the Philippines.” The event, held on June 27, 2024, took place at Virata Hall, UP Diliman campus, Quezon City. 

With Indonesia being renowned as a Southeast Asian country with the world’s largest Muslim population, the main objective of the seminar was to delve into the trajectory of Islamic reforms in Indonesia while also exploring the parallels, nuances, and context within the Philippines. Dean Wadi affirmed the significance of this initiative, stating, “Understanding the evolution of Islam in Indonesia allows for a deeper comprehension of the Islamic landscape in the region.” Dr. Rais deepened the discussion by delivering a compelling lecture on Islamic Reform in Minangkabau, delving into its history, social dynamics, and prevalent issues, considering its profound connection to Islam, deeply intertwined with the cultural identity of the people. To complement this discourse, Prof. Winbaktianur shed light on Islamic Psychology in Indonesia, emphasizing the ongoing efforts dedicated to showcasing the contributions of Islam to humanity.

DSCF9129
DSCF9157
DSCF9165
DSCF9191
DSCF9199
DSCF9201
DSCF9220
DSCF9224
DSCF9230
DSCF9250

The seminar also included a thought-provoking question and answer segment moderated by Prof. Wadi. This facilitated an open forum for attendees and resource persons, encouraging fruitful interaction and discussion, allowing for the exchange of insights on Indonesian culture and its significant relations with Islam as practiced by Muslims in the Philippines. 

The event gathered selected members of the UP Diliman Muslim Students’ Association (UP MSA), members of the UP IIS Graduate Students’ Organization (GSO), as well as members of the Xaverian Missionaries and attendees from the private sector. 

Emphasizing the importance of international academic cooperation, the seminar served as an exemplary effort by UP IIS to expand its linkages and networks with local and international academic institutions, fostering meaningful exchanges and mutual understanding.

Categories
News & Archives

IIS Organizes 2024 ‘Eid al-Adha Congregational Prayer

The UP Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS) organized a congregational prayer for ‘Eid al-Adha on June 16, 2024, at Ang Bahay ng Alumni, UP Diliman Campus, Quezon City. Nearly a thousand Muslims from diverse backgrounds across the National Capital Region gathered to observe this important occasion. ‘Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” holds profound significance in Islam, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) in obedience to God.

Leading the prayer and delivering the khutbah (sermon) was Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi, the dean of the UP IIS. Dean Wadi underscored the Hajj pilgrimage as one of the “Five Pillars of Islam,” obligatory for those who are physically, mentally, and financially capable. He drew upon the teachings of Prophet Mohammad (Peace be upon him), highlighting the pillars of Islam and emphasizing the spiritual essence of Hajj, particularly the significance of ‘Arafah as a sacred site.

In his address, Dean Wadi also touched upon the ongoing struggles of the Palestinian people, urging solidarity and compassion. He also spoke on the profound spiritual significance of Hajj and the sacred site of ‘Arafah, while addressing the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians. “We stand in solidarity and gratitude for the enduring sacrifices of Prophet Ibrahim’s descendants in Gaza, West Bank, East Jerusalem, and beyond,” he remarked.

The annual ‘Eid al-Adha congregational prayer hosted by the Institute is among several outreach initiatives by the UP IIS, offering a dedicated space for the Muslim community to gather and observe their faith.

Categories
News & Archives

Islamic Law Gains National Recognition with New Shari’ah Judicial Districts and Courts, UP CIDS-ISP and UP IIS Augment Initiatives with Shari’ah Education Campaign

On April 29, 2024, the government achieved a milestone recognition of Shariah law with the approval of Senate Bill No. 2594. This landmark legislation establishes three additional Shariah Judicial Districts and 12 Shariah Circuit Courts outside the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

In support of this significant development, the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies-Islamic Studies Program (UP CIDS-ISP) and UP Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS) have launched the Shari’ah Education Campaign. The initiative, which began with a webinar on May 25, 2024, aims to raise awareness and promote Shari’ah Law among Muslim communities across the Philippines. The campaign is designed to help Muslim constituents access the services of Shari’ah Courts and seek guidance from Shari’ah Councilors, enhancing the integration of Shari’ah services into their daily lives.

The Shari’ah Education Campaign features lectures from esteemed Muslim scholars at UP IIS. The first lecture was delivered by Asst. Prof. Darwin J. Absari, provided an in-depth history of Islamic Law in the Philippines, tracing its evolution from the pre-Islamic period to its current inclusion in the Philippine Constitution. Assoc. Prof. Macrina A. Morados followed with a comprehensive overview of Presidential Decree 1083, also known as the Code of Muslim Personal Laws, detailing its legal framework and highlighting key provisions.

During the webinar, participants had the opportunity to engage with the speakers, raising questions and seeking clarifications on various legal issues. These inquiries were comprehensively addressed by Assoc. Prof. Morados, a recognized Shari’ah Counselor.

Asst. Prof. Absari announced future Shari’ah Education Campaign events, planned for Muslim communities in Metro Manila and selected areas within BARMM. This ongoing effort by UP IIS and UP CIDS-ISP aims to foster collaboration between academia and society and to promote and strengthen the implementation of Shari’ah practices.

The Shari’ah Education Campaign represents a significant move in enhancing the understanding and application of Shari’ah Law in the Philippines, reflecting a broader commitment to integrating Islamic legal principles within the national legal framework.

Categories
News & Archives

UP IIS Forges Partnership with American Open University, Hosts Seminar on Humanity and the Qur’an

On May 23, 2024, the University of the Philippines, through its Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS), formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the American Open University (AOU). The signing ceremony was led by UP Diliman Chancellor Atty. Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II and AOU Board of Trustee Engr. Ossama Mohammad Suhail Alazzouni, with UP IIS Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi signing as a witness.

In his message, Chancellor Vistan congratulated UP IIS for achieving another milestone by expanding its global partnerships. The MOU with AOU will foster various academic activities based on equality and reciprocity. These activities include the exchange of faculty, researchers, and administrative staff; student exchanges; collaborative research projects; lectures and symposia; the exchange of academic information and materials; and other forms of academic cooperation.

Prof. Wadi expressed his gratitude to Chancellor Vistan and UP System President Angelo Jimenez for their unwavering support. He noted that this support is crucial as the Institute prepares to move to its new building, the New Institute of Islamic Studies Complex, expected to be completed by early 2025. Strengthening partnerships with local and international institutions, such as AOU, is a key part of this preparation.

The partnership with AOU was inaugurated with the “Seminar on Humanity and the Qur’an,” co-organized by the International Center for Social Research, Peace, and Development (ICSRPD) and AOU. The seminar highlighted the relevance of the Qur’an as a comprehensive guide for humanity and provided a platform for engaging discussions on the topic.

Engr. Ossama Al-Azzouni was one of the key speakers at the seminar, discussing the “Paradigm of Reforming.” He emphasized how the Qur’an can guide in redefining and reviving values within societal systems. Another notable speaker, Ustadh Ahmed Hamdeen Eissa, a respected Islamic scholar from Egypt and a Qur’an researcher at ICSRPD, lectured on humanity in relation to the Qur’an. He highlighted the importance of genuinely understanding and applying the teachings of the Qur’an.

The seminar included a question-and-answer session, allowing attendees to seek clarifications and deepen their understanding of the topics discussed. This interactive component was crucial in imparting vital lessons about humanity and the Qur’an.

Prof. Wadi mentioned that this seminar marks the beginning of many future engagements between UP IIS and AOU, as well as with other potential partners. He encouraged attendees to continuously engage with UP IIS’s new programs and activities, extending an invitation to visit the New Institute of Islamic Studies, the new home of IIS.

This partnership signifies a significant step forward for UP IIS, committing to enhanced academic collaborations and a broader exchange of knowledge and cultural understanding.

Present during the seminar were faculty, staff, and students from the UP IIS; members of the UP Muslim Students’ Association; seminarians from the Xaverian Missionaries; asatidz from the Islamic Studies, Call, and Guidance; members of the Philippine Coast Guard; and personnel from the ICSRPD.

Categories
News & Archives

UP IIS and Partners conduct Solidarity and Support for Filipino-Palestinian Refugees through a Fundraiser Event

“Just be around. You don’t have to bring food or money. Just be around”

This heartfelt request came from a Filipino-Palestinian refugee to Assistant Professor Darwin J. Absari after they were relocated from a dormitory on the UP Diliman campus to their temporary residence in Rizal. This plea underscored a profound truth: for those who have lost almost everything, human presence often means more than material assistance.

Asst. Prof. Absari, representing the UP Institute of Islamic Studies, facilitated humanitarian aid with the support of the University of the Philippines Diliman. Reflecting on the refugee’s words, he realized that “money is not important, but the presence of people who are helping them; money is only secondary.”

In line with this understanding, the UP Institute of Islamic Studies (IIS) remains committed to providing ongoing support to these families as part of its extension project. A recent fundraiser event held May 19, 2024, at the 2nd Floor Plaza, Virata Hall, UP Diliman campus exemplified this dedication, featuring a series of engaging activities designed to foster community and solidarity.

The morning events began with the “Little Gaza Bazaar”, a vibrant display of Palestinian culinary skills and craftsmanship. Featuring Mediterranean cuisine and handmade products, the bazaar has become a vital source of livelihood for the refugees. Delicacies like Maqluba and Biryani, along with traditional Keffiyehs, attracted customers from various UP units, neighboring communities, and other barangays in Metro Manila.

The afternoon session took a more intimate turn with Filipino-Palestinian families sharing their poignant stories of war, love, family, and career development. The session opened with a warm welcome from Dr. Henelito Sevilla, Dean of the UP Asian Center. He stressed that true support goes beyond mere assistance; it requires a deep understanding of the Palestinian people’s history and struggles. This theme resonated throughout the activity titled “Stories of Fil-Palestinian Families.” Rather than focusing solely on the trauma of Gaza, the refugees shared personal stories of resilience and love. They spoke of surviving prolonged conflicts and how their affection for their Filipino spouses and families gave them strength. These narratives also highlighted how Gaza, despite its turmoil, has provided them with education and opportunities, with many having completed higher education and some holding advanced degrees. This nuanced portrayal presented Gaza not just as a war zone but as a place capable of nurturing its people’s aspirations and talents.

The event concluded with a powerful solidarity walk, where hundreds of individuals joined in a show of support, rallying behind the hashtag #PagkakaisaparasaPalestine. The atmosphere was overwhelmed with unity as participants held placards and chanted, “From the River to the Sea, Palestine will be free.”

This fundraiser event drew nearly a thousand supporters, fostering a profound sense of community and solidarity. It highlighted the shared humanity and resilience of Filipino-Palestinian refugees, while also drawing attention to the broader Palestinian community’s ongoing struggles.

The event was a collaborative effort, organized by the UP Institute of Islamic Studies and the Moro-Palestinian Cooperation Team, with contributions from the UP Muslim Students’ Association, PTV4 Salam Radyo, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos-Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs, the Muslim Inter-Organizational Meeting (MIOM), Thinking Ummah, Mubaarak Fresh Food, Taha Foundation, Salam Pilipinas, and Performance Alliance for Palestine.