Inclusivity behind bars: Muslim PDLs observe Ramadan in jail
By Mariesh F. Celedeña
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Butuan City jail male dormitory (BCJMD) expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support to their faith during Ramadan.
On March 03, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Police Regional Office 13 (PRO13) conducted a jail visitation and distributed halal food packs and hygiene kits to PDLs in celebration of Ramadan.
This activity highlighted the respect for religious diversity and promoted inclusivity within the correctional community.
Alias Moby, one of the PDLs, expressed his gratitude for the activity, saying, “Kami po ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat sa panahong inilaan ng Salaam Police, gayundin sa mga makabuluhang pangaral tungkol sa kahalagahan ng tunay na pagsasabuhay ng Islam sa banal na buwan ng Ramadan, lalo na ang pagbabalik-loob, pagsisisi sa mga pagkukulang, at tapat na pagsunod sa mga ipinag-uutos ng Panginoon sa atin. Lubos din po ang aming pasasalamat sa mga biyayang pagkain at toiletries na ipinagkaloob ninyo. Alhamdulillahi Rabbil Alameen.”
(We are grateful for the time given by the Salaam Police, for the guidance and teachings on the importance of living out Islam during the holy month of Ramadan, particularly on repentance and faithfully following what the Lord has commanded us. We also sincerely thank you for the blessings of food and toiletries. All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds.)
City Jail Warden JCInsp. Diovin C. Auza thanked PNP-PRO13 for its unwavering support and dedication to community engagement, demonstrating that public service is at its finest when anchored in empathy, respect, and genuine concern for all.
According to Jail Warden JCInsp. Diovin C. Auza, in observance of the holy month, the facility has taken concrete steps to support its Muslim brothers and sisters within the jail. A separate room has been designated as a prayer area to provide them with a quiet and respectful space for worship and reflection.
In addition to accommodating their fasting practices, a cook has been assigned to ensure that meals are prepared and served at the appropriate times, particularly during suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (breaking of the fast). These measures reflect the jail’s commitment to upholding religious freedom and promoting inclusivity, dignity, and respect for all PDLs.
Ramadan is a sacred period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community, when our Muslim brothers and sisters abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset as an act of spiritual discipline, self-control, and devotion.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan emphasizes charity, generosity, forgiveness, and strengthening one’s faith and connection with others. Acts of kindness and giving hold special significance during this time, as they embody the true essence of the season. (MFC, PIA Caraga, with a report from BCJMD)