In observance of World Hijab Day and the recently established National Hijab Awareness Day, the DENDA Organization, led by City Councilor Karel Annjaiza Sakkalahul, with the theme, “Hijab Talks: Voices, Choices, and Co-existence”, in partnership with the City Government of Isabela under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, and the City Information Office and Gender and Development – Isabela City Unit headed by CIO Mendry-Ann Lim, February 1, at the Interactive Learning Center of Basilan National High School and attended by students and educators.
The program officially opened with welcome remarks from BNHS OIC Principal Dr. Arnel Hajan, who emphasized the importance of creating safe and inclusive learning spaces for young people. This was followed by an opening message from Councilor Karel Annjaiza Sakkalahul, highlighting the significance of the Hijab Ordinance and the need to continuously promote understanding, respect, and freedom of choice.
The forum featured a series of meaningful discussions, beginning with “Hijab: More Than a Piece of Cloth” by Ustaza Haipa Abdulnunsi, which explored the deeper meaning of the hijab in Islam and its role in dignity, identity, and faith. This was followed by “Hijab and Freedom of Choice”, with speakers PESO Manager/Acting City Budget Officer Aralderia Belleng and Pinay Kilos Executive Director Jasmin Teodoro, underscoring women’s right to choose and the importance of respecting diverse personal decisions.
The session “Modesty and Empowerment,” delivered by CIO Lim, highlighted how modesty can coexist with confidence, leadership, and self-respect. “As we observe World Hijab Day, let us commit ourselves—as students, educators, and community members—to building environments where modesty is respected, objectification is rejected, identity is protected, and empowerment is defined by dignity rather than appearance,” she added.
A video message from women’s advocate Ms. Queenie Padilla further reinforced messages of empowerment and solidarity. Meanwhile, “Respect, Diversity, and Co-existence”, discussed by Atty. Careema Abdulajid, emphasized harmonious living in diverse communities and the value of mutual respect across cultures and beliefs.
Adding depth and personal perspective, the testimony talk “Stories Behind the Hijab” shared real-life experiences, challenges, and inspirations of hijabi women. The activity concluded with an interactive Try-a-Hijab session, allowing participants to gain a better appreciation and understanding of the hijab through respectful engagement.
World Hijab Day, observed every February 1, is a global movement that fosters understanding, respect, and solidarity with Muslim women who choose to wear the hijab. Celebrated in more than 190 countries, the observance encourages people of all backgrounds to learn about the meaning of the hijab, break stereotypes, and promote a culture of acceptance, inclusivity, and peaceful co-existence.
Proudly, Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman was among the principal authors of the National Hijab Day legislation, when it was first filed as House Bill No. 8249 (18th Congress), and which was later refiled as House Bill 5693 (19th Congress) and served as the basis for Republic Act No. 12224, enacted on June 18, 2025. The law was approved at the bicameral conference committee with strong support from the Basilan Lone District Representative and now, Governor Mujiv Hataman.
In Isabela City, this advocacy was institutionalized through City Ordinance No. 23-730, otherwise known as the “Hijab Ordinance of the City of Isabela”, signed into law on March 31, 2023, under the administration of Mayor Turabin-Hataman. The ordinance safeguards the rights of Muslim women to wear hijab, niqab, or burqa and prohibits discrimination or unreasonable restrictions against it. The measure was principally sponsored by Councilor Karel Annjaiza Sakkalahul, reflecting the city’s strong commitment to inclusivity, respect for faith, and women’s rights.
The World Hijab Day 2026 celebration in Isabela City reaffirmed the city’s commitment to inclusivity, respect for cultural and religious diversity, and women’s empowerment. (Words by KJ Lim/Photos by KY Sencio, IsaTV)
