Sibutu, TAWI-TAWI—Over six hundred years ago, Sheik Karimul Makdhum, an Arab missionary, arrived in the Philippines to propagate the teaching of Islam in the country.
Given the long history of Islam in the Philippines, Makhdum traveled to spread the faith in Asia and is credited with bringing it to the Philippines. He is also renowned for constructing the country’s oldest mosque, a landmark that holds great historical significance in the lives of Filipino Muslims.
In honor of his great contribution, the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH) in partnership with the National Historical Commission (NHC) of the Philippines, held a wreath-laying ceremony in the tomb of the late Sheik Makhdum on November 6, 2024, in Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi.
The ceremony is part of his 644 commemoration on the 7th of November, which is regarded as “Sheikh Karimul Makhdum Day” in the Bangsamoro region and served as an official kick-off for the “2030 Year of Philippine Muslim History and Heritage” initiative of the national government.
BCPCH Chairperson Dr. Salem Lingasa during the ceremony reflected on Sheikh Karimul Makhdum’s enduring influence in Islamic history, emphasizing his role in spreading and propagating Islam.
“Sheikh Karimul Makhdum’s prominence is deeply embedded in the collective history and identity of Muslims in the Philippines,” Lingasa said.
He emphasized the importance of knowing the history and encouraged the community to continue to learn and share the Bangsamoro history, “so it is told by us, for us, and for all to understand and respect,” Lingasa added.
Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim also released his statement in light of the commeration, saying that “the significant day continues to serve as a testament to the birth of the Islamic faith in the country and to the enduring spirit of our people.”
“The teachings of Sheik Makhdum have laid the foundation of the Muslim faith in the Bangsamoro homeland and have inspired generations,” the statement read.
The highlight of the activity in Sibutu includes the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the NHC and the Local Government of Sibutu, which will formalize plans for the rehabilitation of the Sheikh Karimul Makhdum burial site found at Brgy. Sheikh Makhdum.
The ceremony was personally attended by NHC Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose, Jr., Secretary Sabuddin Abdurahim of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, Mayor Nur-Fitra P. Ahaja of Sibutu Municipality, Provincial Administrator Mobin Gampal representing Governor Yshmael Sali, and Philippine Air Force 2LT Michael Licayo. (Laila Aripin/BIO with reports from BCPCH)
