03/09/2026
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The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), through the Bureau of Muslim Cultural Affairs (BMCA) and its Madrasah Education Development Division (MEDD), in coordination with the NCMF-CARAGA Regional Office, conducted the Annual Assessment for Traditional Madaris in the Caraga Region from August 20 to 23, 2026.
Led by BMCA Director Arch. Benrajiv J. Kashim, together with MEDD Chief Jurhana Dimaampao and MEDD staff Limpi Macapundag III and Nurol Mortaba, the team traveled across the regionβfrom Butuan City to Tandag City in Surigao del Sur and Bayugan City in Agusan del Surβto personally meet madrasah administrators, asatidz, murits (madrasah students), and Muslim community leaders. The visits provided an opportunity to see the actual learning environment, understand the current conditions and educational needs of the madaris, and identify areas where NCMF programs and assistance may be extended.
Upon arrival in Butuan City, the team paid a courtesy visit to NCMF-CARAGA Regional Director Monaim G**o and Cultural Affairs Division Chief (CAD) Casar Bonsalagan, together with the CAD staff. The Regional Office personnel also assisted and accompanied the team during the madrasah visits, strengthening coordination between the NCMF Central and Regional Offices in reaching Muslim communities in the area.
During the assessment, Director Kashim emphasized that the activity is not simply an inspection, but an opportunity for NCMF to listen to madrasah administrators, asatidz, and community leaders, understand their situation, and identify appropriate areas where the Commission can provide support for the madaris and their murits.
The madrasah administrators and asatidz openly shared their concerns, challenges, and needs, particularly those affecting their learning facilities, registration requirements, and the continued delivery of Islamic education in their communities. They also expressed their appreciation to the NCMF team for personally visiting their madaris and taking the time to listen and understand their situation. The field visits gave them an opportunity to directly raise their concerns with the Commission and learn about the programs and assistance that may be available to them.
Chief Dimaampao highlighted the various programs and services of the BMCA-MEDD, particularly the NCMF Madrasah Rehabilitation Program, and encouraged qualified madaris to register with NCMF and apply for the program. Financial assistance was likewise extended to two madaris in Surigao del Sur to help them complete the documentary requirements for NCMF registration and their application for the rehabilitation program.
The team also shared information on educational opportunities available through NCMF-BMCA, including the possible endorsement of qualified murits who intend to pursue further Islamic studies abroad.
The four-day field activity reflects the NCMFβs continuing commitment, under the leadership of Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim and BMCA Director Arch. Benrajiv J. Kashim, to bring the Commission closer to Muslim communities, including those in geographically distant and underserved areas. By going directly to the communities, NCMF seeks to better understand their needs, respond to their concerns, and ensure that its programs and services reach those who need them most.
The NCMF-BMCA-MEDD extends its appreciation to NCMF-CARAGA Regional Director Monaim G**o, Cultural Affairs Division Chief Casar Bonsalagan, the CAD staff, and the Regional Office personnel for their assistance and support throughout the assessment visits.
