Vol. XVIII, Nos. 2 Official Publication of the Institute of Islamic Studies July 2012Dec.

2012
Vol. IX, No. 1 University of the Philippines Diliman JanuaryJune 2013

On March 18, 2013, the UP Institute of Islamic

Studies organized an Inter-Agency Consultations
on Sabah Issue among different government
agencies and institutions attended by the Office
of the UP President, House of Representatives
Committee on Muslim Affairs, Office of the Presi-
dential Assistant for Peace Process, and UP Cen-
ter for People Empowerment in Governance. For-
mer Vice President Teofisto Guingona also partic-
ipated in the consultations including a number of
scholars and experts, policy makers and leaders
in various fields. to generate commonalities which can be the
meat of advocacy, policy, and concrete action
Dean Julkipli Wadi explained that the main ra- programs particularly on the Sabah issue. This
tionale of the forum was to explore perspectives is in accord with the message of UP President
and positions from concerned institutions in order
SABAH ISSUE / PAGE 10

Institute, Abdulwahab Ak-

bar Institute, Mubarakat
Institute and Claret College of

RTD IN BASILAN / PAGE 11

The Research Association in Islam-
ic Social Sciences, Inc. in collabora-
tion with the UP Institute of Islam-
ic Studies (IIS), Basilan State Col-
lege (BSC), and Bureau of Madaris
Education (BME) of Department of
Education - Autonomous Region
in Muslim Mindanao spearheaded
the Fifth Round Table Discussion
on Islamic Research on December
17-19, 2012 at the BSC Campus in
Whats Inside?
Sabah Issue
Isabela City, Basilan. The prima- RTD in Basilan
ry goal of the annual RTD was Editorial
to strengthen Islamic studies News/Events
units in Southern Philippines.
Visitors
Among the participating institu- Faculty/Staff Update
tions were MSU-GenSan, MSU- Special Edition: Gradua-
Tawi-Tawi, BSC, Notre Dame of tion
Jolo College, Sulu State College, Feature: Sintang Dalisay
Mindanao Autonomous College,
Commentaries: The Role
Basilan Ulama Council, Attaqwa
Synthesis: Sabah Issue

Recently, two issues have resonated very
strongly in Muslim communities: the Frame-
work Agreement and the Sabah Question.
The signing of the Framework Agreement sent
a positive signal that the long standing so-
called Moro Problem is finally reaching an
end. Solutions are at hand pending the comple-
tion and approval of the annexes which will
become the core body of the Bangsamoro entity.
Much optimism and celebration occurred.
The sudden emergence of the Sabah issue and
the violence that accompanied it not only sur-
prised but also agitated Moros especially those
in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. The confrontations
between the Sultan of Sulus Royal Forces and
the Malaysian Police, followed by the violent
deportation of Moros from Sabah and other
areas lent to the event a new drama. Much
pessimism and wailings occurred.
Some see these two issues as interconnected;
and that the Framework Agreement can be a
vehicle by which the Sabah issue can be re-
solved as part of the concept of ancestral do-
main.
Unfortunately, it seems that the Sabah ques-
tion was never included in the discussions, so
that its exclusion gave the Sultan of Sulu the
sense of a continuing historical injustice that
must be addressed.
The collision of these events whether intended
or not put the Moros in a hard place faced
with more questions than answers. Predictions
of a bright future can still be possible if these
questions are faced with real answers.
-The Editor
2 SAHIYFAH
news/events
IIS Now offers Islamic Economics Courses
In response to the emerging trends and possibilities in Is-
lamic Economics, the IIS now offers Islamic Economics on
Banking, Trade and Investment (IS 293) and Special Topics
on Islamic Economics (IS 198B), as part of the degrees ma-
jor courses. It aims to train the students in this alternative
economic system.
The institute invited Professors Ikram Tawasil and Esmael
Ebrahim, to teach the courses and be part of the IIS faculty
line-up. Tawasil was previously connected with the Ama-
nah Islamic Bank (AIB) in the Philippines and received his
academic training on Islamic Economic and Finance in Ma-
laysia while Esmael obtained his Islamic Economics degree
at the International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
On a related event, Division Heads of the Philippine Stock
Exchange (PSE) and AIB held an initial consultation with
IIS Dean Julkipli Wadi on Islamic Finance. The said institu-
tions eventually became the Technical Working Group
(TWG) which later included the National Commission on
Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) and Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas
(BSP). The TWG is expected to draw specific programs and
wider economic policies for the country. Simultaneous to
this effort, according to the IIS Dean, is the continuous
training of future Islamic Finance practitioners and experts.
The institute, he added, has to take an aggressive step in
developing the technical manpower.(see related story on page
3)
IIS and NCMF Send Marawi Student to
International Quran-Reading Competition
Through the efforts of the UP IIS and the National Commis-
sion on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), Mohammad Dugasan
Amin participated in the 2012 King Abdul Aziz Interna-
tional Quran Recitation and Memorization Competition. It
was held at the Grand Mosque of Makkah in the Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia (KSA) on December 3 last year. The compe-
tition encourages young Muslims to memorize and study
by heart the text of the Holy Quran.

Amin, 19, competed against con-
testants from Arab-speaking
countries such as Saudi Arabia,
Jordan, Yemen, Sudan, Morocco,
among others. One hundred sixty
-four (164) contestants from 54
countries competed in the said
event. Although he came home
without a win, he said he felt
privileged and honoured to have
represented the country consider-
ing the Philippines is a non-
Arabic speaking and a non-
Muslim country.
Dean Julkipli Wadi said that the
institute was happy to take part
in giving opportunities and inter-
national exposure to excellent stu-
dents from the Muslim south.
Meetings on Islamic Finance:
The Philippine Initiative
Islamic Finance is a common no-
menclature among Asian coun-
tries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Sin-
gapore, and Pakistan. Lately, a
number of major agencies in the
Philippines, showed considerable
interest on it. They are spearhead-
ed by the PSE under the leader-
ship of Mr. Hans Sicat. In fact,
july 2012december 2012; january 2013june 2013
news/events
there were a series of meetings
that took place among said
major agencies discussing is-
sues on Islamic Finance.
Last August 30, 2012, repre-
sentatives from the PSE; Secu-
rities and Exchange Commis-
sion; Central Bank of the Phil- Usman's business correspond-
ippines; Bureau of Internal
Revenue; Amanah Islamic
Bank; Asian Development
Bank; National Commission
on Muslim Filipinos; and the
UP IIS met. A meeting was
held in PSE office, Makati
City. The group is referred to
as the "Shari'ah Technical
Working Group (TWG)."
NCMF Secretary Mehol Sadain Usman said that he would like
chairs the said TWG. The to see this same project evolve
group discussed matters like in the Philippine setting.
Market Models, identification
of other avenues or offices that
can be of big help to the
group's objectives, the need to
hire a Shari'ah advisor or to
of Agrarian Reform office to
organize a Shari'ah council,
and the need to form commit-
tees within the TWG.
On November 9, 2012, the
Shari'ah TWG met again with
the presence of Mr. Mustapha
Hamat known as the Father of
Islamic Finance in Malaysia
and Mr. Kamarul Osman, an
expert in Islamic Finance. The
meeting included a brief anal-
ysis of the 2012 Framework
Agreement on the Bangsamoro
by Dean Julkipli Wadi and a
presentation on Islamic Fi-
nance by Mr. Mustapha Ha-
mat.
The Shari'ah TWG met again
on November 29, 2012 with
guest Mr. Eugene Agapay, Mr.
ent in the Philippines. The
agenda of the meeting in-
cludes PSE update by Mr. Leo
Quinitio, and the presentation
on Islamic Finance by Mr. Us-
man focusing on existing Ma-
laysian project called Sabah
Development Corridor - Ban-
dar Samudera Project. This
project focuses on tourism, ag-
rofishery, and palm oil. Mr.
On November 30, the group
assembled at UP IIS before
proceeding to the Department
continue discussing unre-
solved issues raised in earlier
meetings.
Lunch was prepared by Mr.
and Mrs. Benedicto Tutay,
both alumnus of the IIS. The
group is looking forward to
productive years to come
when Islamic Finance will be
concrete reality beneficial to
both Muslims and non-
Muslims. (KBAM)
3

Feb 4 at Miriam College
The IIS together with the Miriam
College Center for Peace Educa-
tion, Peacemakers Circle Founda-
tion spearheaded the fourth day
celebration of World Interfaith
Harmony Week 2013 at Miriam
College, Quezon City.
More than 200 hundred faculty
members and students from dif-
ferent colleges and universities
attended the forum. The forum
sought to increase awareness of
teachers, educators and the pub-
lic about the World Interfaith
Harmony Week and increase
peoples appreciation for the
shared values common amongst
the different faiths.
Prof. Morados, UP IIS College
Secretary delivered the first lec-
ture in the forum. Her talk fo-
cused on some principles found
in the Quran and Prophetic Tra-
ditions that can also be found in
the Holy Bible like the principles
of love, justice, equality and so
on. She affirmed that these
common universal values can be
found in our daily lives as an in-
dividual, member of a family, or
society at large. She asked the
invited audience to act upon the-
se principles as these are embed-
ded in their holy scriptures and
4 SAHIYFAH
news/events
to come together and ponder
upon the significance of dia-
logue as an important tool to
bind and unite people togeth-
er.
Ms. Marites G. Africa, Execu-
tive Director of Peacemaker
Circle, also talked about
shared values and remind-
ed the listeners on how to cre-
ate harmony amongst all cre-
ation regardless of religious
affiliation by focusing on
commonalities and respect for
each others differences re-
ferred to as litaarafu in the
Quran (S.49:13) that means to
know and respect each others
differences. She also ex-
plained the importance of
loving each other and cited
the biblical injunction of love
which says:
He who does not know how to
love does not know God for God is
love.
She ended her lecture by show-
ing a picture of an imam,
priest, monk and others in a
group hug and asking the au-
dience hopefully to join them
in the near future.
Feb 5 at UST
Another forum was held at
the University of Santo To-
mas entitled Forum on Har-
mony with Creation, an In-
terfaith Perspective that
aimed to highlight the moral
climate of various religious
traditions in addressing
pressing issues and concerns
about the environment. It
advanced the belief that
World Harmony requires
unity of all religions to work
together in healing the earth.
More than 100 participants
from different colleges and
universities but comprising
mostly students from UST,
gathered at the UST Center
for Peace Studies and Inter-
faith Dialogue. The event
was organized by the Uni-
Harmony Partners Manila,
under the initiative of Reli-
gions for Peace Philippines
and Silisilah Dialogue
Movement.
Venerable Mio Jing, Obis of
Fuang Shaw Mabuhay Tem-
ple in Manila and also the
Dean of the FLG Manila
Buddhist College, delivered
the first lecture. Her talk en-
titled Mother Earth re-
minded the audience that
 news/events

both the Earth and Human Be- and muamalah, the former refers to maintained that Christianity
ings share common denomina- worshiping God and the latter on does not only focus on spir-
tors such as the four funda- the dealings among men to in- itual aspects of life but also
mental elements: earth, fire, clude environment and other crea- deals with socio-
air, and water. She said that tures. In fact she said, one of the environmental issues. He
these are the elements that we core principles of Maqasid al- mentioned that in Jan, 17 2001
cannot deny, the elements that Shariah is to protect other crea- Pope John Paul II made a
reminds us of our connection tures and environment. At the end, proclamation that the Chris-
to the Earth. she emphatically asserted that Is- tians should not focus only on
lam is not only a religion of faith physical ecology as what is at
Prof. Morados talked about but also a religion of action. stake is also human ecology.
Harmony with Creation
from the Islamic perspective. The last speaker, Rev. Fr. Pablo Questions about the continu-
She laid down the Quranic Tiong OP , Director for Justice, ing environmental destruc-
and Prophetic Traditions on Peace and Care for Creation Com- tions and the reasons for the-
environmental concerns mission of the Philippines Domini- se situations were raised dur-
through the concepts of Ibadah can Province of the Philippines, ing the open forum.

The speakers all agreed that

the calamities happening in
our environment are the end
results of our negligence to
realize the importance of en-
vironmental protection and
our failure to act accordingly.

The program was closed by

Rev. Fr. Felimon Dela Cruz,
Jr. OP, Vice Rector for Reli-
gious Affairs of UST.

IIS Employees took Web Development Class

Last January 13, 2013 select-
ed IIS employees finished
their training on basic web
development conducted at
the UP Information Technol-
ogy Training Center. The
training was held on Sun-
days December 2, 9, 16, 2012
and January 6, 13, 2013 at the
Vidal Tan Hall Building, Universi- Leila Halud, Najeeb Rasul
ty of the Philippines, Diliman, Sali, Russel Nassir, and Kam-
Quezon City. Lunch, snacks and aruddin Bin Alawi Moham-
training materials were also pro- mad.
vided for the trainees.
With said training, IIS web-
IIS employees who have been giv- site is expected to have a
en the opportunity to attend the fresh look - upgraded and
training were Mary Cabacungan, always up-to-date.

july 2012december 2012; january 2013june 2013 5


Close to fifty (50) foreign stu-
dents visited the IIS for an in-
ter-faith exchange last October
2012. The students came all
the way from Ecuador, Germa-
ny, Switzerland, Italy, Laos,
Vietnam, Thailand as well as
the Philippines. The Focolare
Movement, based in Tagaytay
City hosted them.
Most of the visiting students
were studying Religion and
Philosophy while the others
were studying to become
priests. Some of them were
here for six months to know
the multi-cultural and multi-
religious Philippine society.
Dean Wadi provided a brief
historical background on Islam
and its arrival in the Philip-
pines. He talked on the rela-
tionship of the Spaniards and
the Muslims, and the 300 years
of Moro wars, the coming of
6 SAHIYFAH
visitors
others with different eyes. Dan-
iel said among his purposes of
being here and living with other
youth in Tagaytay is not only to
focus in understanding his own
religion but also to understand
other peoples faith saying, I
want to understand how we live
our daily lives.
Soren, 18, a Lutheran from Ger-
many, shared that there are a
good number of Muslim mi-
grants in his country, most of
whom are from Turkey and the
the Americans, the establish- Middle East. He had a personal
ment of the Philippine Republic exchange with some IIS students
and the inclusion of the Muslim over coffee break. IIS students
in the Republic. He also dis- said he was the first Lutheran
cussed the Moro resistance they have met.
movement and the peace nego-
tiation with the MNLF and the Jomar from Davao del Sur dis-
MILF. closed that the dialogue with
Dean Wadi was among the most
After the brief introduction, intimate discussions he has had
sharing among the participants as a student of Theology. During
took place. Among them were the interaction, he pointed to the
the following: peaceful co-existence in the com-
munity where he came from, but
Daniel who is from Italy shared there was no unity. Jomar asked
his encounter with a Filipino for Dean Wadis help to initiate a
which led him to realize how dialogue amongst his Muslim
different European and Asian and non-Muslim brothers and
cultures are and that he does sisters in Mindanao. I want the
not have to change his culture people to understand how to
to be able to get along with the move forward and live together
others. I do not have to change in peace and in unity, he con-
myself but I have to open a new cluded.
way to understand others. This
is my way to build a dialogue, Richard, A Filipino student said,
he said adding that it is not It is very important to engage
necessary to go deeper or focus in inter-faith dialogue because
on our mistakes but instead see we will be leaders in the future.
 visitors

Interfaith dialogue is important other institutions serving Mus- show them the beauty of Islamic
and relevant in our lives to- lims in the Philippines such as Arts, he said.
day. the National Commission on
Muslim Filipinos.(KBAM) The short lecture was much ap-
Sharing the same sentiment, preciated by the students as much
Roberto Mussi, head of Foco- UP CFA Students Visit as they enjoyed the native re-
lare delegates said, Our first freshment served.(NRS)
IS Library
struggle is to be close to one
another and to never give up. Visitors from the
On December 5 and 6 2012, UP
Indonesian Academe
Dean Wadi in his concluding College of Fine Arts Professor
remarks said: We have to ex- Lisa Tapang brought her stu- A group of Indonesian academics
plore more on our commonali- dents to visit the collection of
Islamic Calligraphy and Arts at visited IIS last December 19, 2012.
ties than that polarizes us.
the IIS Library. The students, They were composed of Dr. H.
Visitors from Brunei numbering almost 40 request- Mastuki as head of the delega-
ed for a short lecture on basic tion, Dr. Azhar Arsyad and Mr.
Darussalam
calligraphy. Irwanuddin Abbas from Alaud-
din State Islamic University, Dr.
Two Bruneian professors from
the Sultan Sharif 'Ali Islamic Jaenal Abidin from Syarif Hi-
University visited IIS last No- dayatullah Jakarta State Islamic
vember 8, 2012. They were Dr. University, and Mr. Mohammed
Abdurrahman Raden Aji Haqqi Saleem, an Educational Organiza-
- Deputy Dean, Senior Lecturer, tion Registration Officer from the
Faculty of Shari'ah and Law; National Skills Development Pro-
and Dr. Azme Bin Haji Matali - gram.
Faculty of Shari'ah and Law.

Russel Naser, a graduate of The visit was made since one of

They showed interest with the
Majul collection on Muslims in
the Philippines and bought
books at the IIS and the UP
Press. They also wanted to visit
MA Islamic Studies and the the delegates met Dean Wadi in
Institutes Education Research one of the conferences they both
Assistant granted their request. attended.(KBAM)
This is the opportunity to

"Be like the sun for grace and mercy.
Be like the night to cover others' faults.
Be like running water for
generosity.
Be like death for rage and anger.
Be like the earth for modesty.
Appear as you are.
Be as you appear."
-Rumi
We can only learn
and advance with contradictions.
The faithful inside should
meet the doubtful.
The doubtful should meet the faithful.
Human slowly advances
and becomes mature when
he accepts his contradictions.
-Shams Tabrizi
"You were born with potential
You were born with goodness and trust
You were born with ideals and dreams
You were born with greatness
You were born with wings
You are not meant for crawling, so don't
You have wings
Learn to use them and fly!"
-Rumi

july 2012december 2012; january 2013june 2013 7

 News / events
Bangsamoro Framework Agreement
and the Labor Groups
Recently, Bangsamoro Framework Agreement has
been the talk of the town. Concerned Filipinos
both Muslims and non-Muslims wanted a clear
picture on this particular issue. So that many gath-
erings that cater to such issue were held. One such
gathering was the public session of the 32nd Alli-
ance of Progressive Labor Council of Leaders'
Conference entitled "Bangsamoro Framework
Agreement: The Path to Lasting Peace?" held last
November 8, 2012 at the SDC Conference Hall,
Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City. Alli-
ance of Progressive Labor (APL) organized said
gathering in coordination with the Norwegian
Confederation of Trade Unions (LO).
Dean Julkipli Wadi presented a paper entitled
"The Bangsamoro Struggle for Self-Rule and the
Framework Agreement: Prospects and Challenges
Ahead." During the forum, Datu Antonio Kinoc,
member of the MILF Peace Panel, dialogued with
Nur-ain L. Sahibil
Chairperson
Liberal Arts & Criminology Department
Notre Dame of Jolo College
Jolo, Sulu
Abdelnazer A. Tagayan
Chairman
Islamic Studies Department
Sulu State College
Jolo, Sulu
Datuan Magon
Deputy Secretary General for Administration
United Youth for Peace and Development, Inc.
Cotabato City
September 16, 2012 to present
8 SAHIYFAH
the audience, which were mostly composed of
leaders and members of labor groups from
different parts of the country.(KBAM)
Interfaith Breakfast with
Cardinal Tagle
On December 5, 2012, Dean Wadi attended an
interfaith community breakfast with the new-
ly-appointed Cardinal, His Eminence Luis
Antonio G. Tagle, held in Arzobispado Build-
ing, Intramuros, Manila.
Present during the occasion were people from
different faiths like Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikh-
ism, Judaism, and the different Christian de-
nominations such as the Catholics and the
Protestants. Christian organizations like The
Focolare, The Cosmopolitan, and The Silsilah
from Zamboanga City. Also present were rep-
resentatives from different Muslim organiza-
tions such as the Salaam Police, Iranian Embas-
sy, and the Turkish Chamber of Commerce in
the Philippines.(KBAM)
Alkabir Pandi
Accepted into Chaplaincy with the rank of Police Sen-
ior Inspector
Chaplain Service, Philippine National Police
January 16, 2013 to present
Armi Evangel N. Pea
Assistant Professor
College of Liberal Arts, History
De La Salle University, Manila
June 2011 to present
Alnasser L. Kasim
Executive Secretary
Turkish Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines
January 2, 2013 to present
 Faculty/staff updates

New Faculty Members and Staff

Esmael Ebrahim Aisha Flores Ikram Tawasil

Serving as one of the commis- Ms. Analiza Flores finished her Mr. Ikram Tawasil obtained
sioners at the National Com- undergraduate degree at the most of his technical trainings
mission for Muslim Filipinos, Philippine Normal University in Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad
Ebrahim now also teaches Is- (PNU) and her graduate degree and Asian Institute of Mana-
lamic Finance at the UP IIS. at the UP Institute of Islamic gament. He was formerly the
Studies (IIS). She is now teaching Assistant Vice President and
He obtained his Islamic Eco- Materials and Methods in Islamic concurrent Acting Senior Vice
nomics degree at the Interna- Studies (IS199). President for Operations and
tional Islamic University, Is- Treasury at the Al-Amanah
lamabad, Pakistan. Ms. Flores has ten years of teach- Islamic Investment Bank of the
ing experience in various colleges Philippines.
Ebrahim was previously a and universities in Metro Manila.
Tawasil has authored several
Technical Consultant at the She is also highly active in exten-
banking-related papers which
Ministry of Hajj and Reli- sion work whose beneficiaries
are Moro women. Her latest ex- include Islamic Banking: A De-
gious Affairs in Kabul, Af-
tension project is dubbed as the velopment Imperative, Basic Prin-
ghanistan, Shariah Advisor of ciples of Islamic Banking and Fi-
Building Bridges of Justice and
Al-Amanah Islamic Invest- nance and Structural Mecha-
Harmony for Muslim Women in
ment Bank of the Philippines, nisms to implement Islamic
Jail and in Depressed Communi-
and Area Manager for Banking, Introduction to Islamic
ties in North Caloocan City. It is
ARMM of the United States funded by the Australian AID Banking Operations, Basic Phi-
Agency for International De- under the AusAID-Philippine- losophy and Principles of Islamic
velopment (USAID). Australia Community Assistance Banking, and Imperatives of Is-
Program (PACAP). lamic Banking.

Kamaruddin Bin Alawi Mohammad

Mr. Mohammad joined the IIS
Staff as University Researcher
on July 2012. He used to work
as research assistant both on
foreign and local projects. He
also worked at the Center for
Moderate Muslims under the
late Comm. Taha Basman of
UNESCO. He has an MA in
Islamic Studies graduated in
April 2011. His thesis is entitled,
Salaah A Tool for Personality
Transformation: An Analysis on
Selected Cases of Muslim in
Zamboanga City. His first jour-
nal article entitled Imam al-
Ghazzali: Revitalizing Islamic
Though in the Light of Ta-
sawwuf is published by the
Embassy of the Islamic Republic
of Iran in 2008. The journal is
called Collection of Speeches
and Lectures Delivered on Hu-
manism and Theocentrism in
Islamic and Western
Thought.
He speaks Filipino, English,
Tausog, Bisaya and Chavaca-
no.

July may december 2011; januaryjune 2013 9


Sabah Issue, from page 1
Alfredo Pascual as read by
Vice President Prospero De
Vera, which said in part: As
leaders and experts, our task
is to provide context and rea-
son when the temptation to
violence is at its greatest. It is
our duty to continue this
great tradition of engage-
ment.
First speaker Rep. Tupay
Loong of Sulu showed con-
cern on three issues: the con-
dition of deportees mostly
coming from Sulu, Tawi-
Tawi and Basilan who had
left their jobs and livelihood
including loved ones in Sa-
bah; the effect of this inci-
dent on the Malaysia-
Philippine relation that may
affect the long history of
barter trade and commercial
relations with Sabah, the life-
blood of many of our people
in Southern Philippines;
and the killing of Muslims
on both sides. He ended his
remarks by saying, they
should settle their differ-
ences with dignity, honor,
compassion, understanding,
fairness and justice for all.
GPH Panel Head for GPH-
MILF Peace Negotiations
Prof. Miriam Colonel-Ferrer
(represented by Hon. Yasmin
Busran Lao) acknowledged
the problem posed by the Sa-
10
news
bah situation which she consid-
ers as unfortunate since the cur-
rent peace process is going quite
well and about to complete the
annexes that will form part of
the Framework Agreement on
the Bangsamoro.
Abraham Idjirani, Spokesper-
son of the Sultanate of Sulu,
remarked on three areas: First-
ly, should the Philippine Re-
public fail to recover North
Borneo after exhausting all
peaceful means, the transfer
document shall become null
and void and the Sultan of Su-
lu shall be free to assert its sov-
ereignty over North Borneo.
Secondly, the sultanate pro-
posed to create a Sabah Refu-
gee Desk, a permanent institu-
tion to address the problem of
deportation which has been
happening since 1982. Thirdly,
and most importantly, Sultan
Jamalul Kiram III wants to end
the issue peacefully but with
martabat (dignity).
During the discussions, former
Vice President Teofisto
Guingona raised the issue of Hu-
man Rights Violation happening
in Sabah pointing to the
reckless and inhumane man-
ner of deportation procedures.
He also suggested a revisit and
restudy of the issues in order to
formulate a good strategy. He
ended by saying: As Filipinos,
as Muslims, as one nation, let
us pursue the Sabah claim
peacefully if we can, but fight
if we must!
Former UP College of Law
Dean Merlin Magallona in-
formed the forum that there
was a legal battle for the Sa-
bah claim pursued by the Phil-
ippines and presented before
the International Court of Jus-
tice in 2001.
He further said , this Sabah
issue should be a turning
point by which the Philip-
pines can make a very clear
affirmation as to its sovereign
claim to Sabah. The claim is
very clear.
Atty. Leonard De Vera of
VACC, on the other hand,
proposed that the President
meet Sultan Jamalul Kiram III
because this is what the Sul-
tanate was asking for adding
that They wrote the Presi-
dent several letters, three let-
ters that got lost in the bu-
reaucratic maze. It only
shows how little importance
they gave to the sultanate.
As a conclusion to the forum,
Prof. Bobby Tuazon of
CENPEG, provided the syn-
thesis of the forum (see page 18
for the synthesis).
SAHIYFAH
 news
RTD in Basilan, from page 1
Lecture-Forum on the
Isabela. volvement of groups in all levels Culture of Ashura
of dialogue.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Car- Lecture-forum on Culture of
men Abubakar, former IIS Dean Professor Macrina Morados pa-
Ashura was held last Decem-
and RAIS President said that 5th per on Exploring Ethical Milieu
ber 4, 2012 at the Bulwagang
RTD attempts to explore ap- for Islamic Research Using the Prin-
ciples of Maqasid Al-Shariah, de-
Salam, UP Diliman sponsored
proaches, methodologies and
fined an Islamic Research as one by the Iranian Embassy,
actual research conducted by the
that uses the primary sources of Imamate Islamic Center and
different units to determine the
research gaps that need to be ad- the Quran and Sunnah in the the IIS. Iran ambassador, Ali
dressed. The RTD was expected pursuit of the goals of Shariah, Asghar Mohammadi delivered
to stimulate and encourage re- namely: life, intellect, faith, line- the keynote address followed
search among the units. age/progeny and property. by five lecturers from different
organizations, namely Dean
This idea was reiterated by the Dr. Carmen Abubakar talked Julkipli Wadi, Hon. Matanog
BSC President Dr. Nasser Salain, about the historical marginaliza- Mapandi - Assistant Secretary
Al Haj, in his Keynote Address tion of women in her paper enti- of the Department of Energy,
when he informed the body that tled The Missing Link: Women in Dr. Potre Dirampatan-
research output is now one of the Local Historical Narratives. She
Diampuan - Regional Director
criteria in the budgetary allot- recommends the use of Oral His-
of United Religions Initiative,
ment of state universities. There- tory, Ethnography, Creative Fo-
Ms. Zainab Javier from the
fore , having an RTD on Islamic cused Group Discussions, and
Muslim Women's Center for
Research was indeed a timely Statistics as methodologies that
can help address the problem of
Change, and Prof. Mahmood
endeavor.
marginalization and thereby pro- Tajar form Al-Mustafa Interna-
Among the papers presented duce a more holistic historical tional College.
were the following: narratives that includes all sec-
tors of the population. A film on the story behind the
Prof. Alzad Sattar, Undersecre- culture of Ashura in Shi'a ver-
tary at the Bureau of Madrasa Dr. Filemon Romeros paper enti- sion was also shown. After the
Education, in his paper entitled, tled, A Case Study on the Applica- program, heavy meal was
The Contributions of Interfaith tion Fatwa on Environmental Man-
served for all.
Organizations to Coexistence and agement in Coastal Resource Man-
their Possible Role in the Peace Pro- agement in Some Municipalities of a 3.5 long squid worm found
cess between the Government of the Tawi-Tawi, discussed the differ- only in the waters of South Ubi-
Republic of the Philippines (GRP) ent fatwas (Islamic ruling) issued
an and Tandubas. It was named
and the Moro Islamic Liberation by the Local Government of Tawi
Teuthidodrilus Samae in honor
Front (MILF) in Mindanao, Philip- -Tawi to protect the environment
of the area and the people.
pines, highlighted the continu- of the area which is one of the
ing difficulties present in inter- richest but still largely unex- Adopting Multi-Media Instruction
faith dialogue but in spite of this, plored biological regions of the System in Teaching Islamic Studies,
he said, interfaith dialogue has a world. In this connection, Dr. was discussed by Professor Ca-
positive impact on the people. Romero, mentioned the discov- limba of MSU-GenSan who
Thus, he recommends the in- ery of a new specie in the form of played a video clip produced by
RTD IN BASILAN / PAGE 19

july 2012december 2012; january 2013july 2013 11

 SAHIYFAH SPE

Message to the Graduates Introducing

Bismillahirrahmannirraheem.
At the outset, we would like to
congratulate our graduates and
extend our commendation to our
honor students on this memorable
day.
To our graduates: today is your day. It is a presentation
of a new feather in your cap. It is a fitting recognition
of your new role as holders of Masters Degree in Is-
lamic Studies.
The degree in Islamic Studies is like any degree gener-
ally offered in many universities both in the Muslim
world and in the West. It is treated as a discipline or as
a field of specialization where specialists and experts
are both Muslim and non-Muslim scholars.
The main difference, however, is the added premium
or responsibility into which our new scholars have to
face and to play their role: their continuing task to un-
derstand and to explain the stride of Islam today and
the critical factors and forces that shaped Muslim socie-
ty and the rest of the Muslim world as the ummah inter-
acts creatively and engage harmoniously with others.
To our graduates: your time is, indeed, an interesting
time. There has never been a stage of history where
understanding and articulating Islam is not only oblig-
atory; it has become very challenging and promising as
well.
The Quran has a sublime reminder: Soon will We
show them our signs in the (furthest) regions (of the
earth), and in their own souls, until it becomes mani-
fest to them that this is the Truth (41: 53).
To our graduates: While your university life may end,
your task in seeking knowledge continues. Your role in
reading the wonders of creation and in deciphering
Truth and its shades should remain even more intense,
while selflessly sharing them to others in charting a
better world.
Our Guest Speaker:
HIS EXCELLENCY
WALEED AHMAD AL-
KANDARI
His Excellency Waleed
Ahmad Al-Kandari is the
Ambassador Extraordi-
nary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Ku-
wait of the Republic of the Philippines. He
holds a Bachelors Degree in Political Science
and Masters Degree in International Rela-
tions. He shows an exemplary record of For-
eign Service for his country since 1984 as-
signed across Europe, Central Asia and South
America. As a diplomat, he has participated
in numerous international forums, confer-
ences, seminars and diplomatic meetings held
both in Kuwait and abroad .
The Ordem de Gran Cruz de Rio Branco
(Order of the Grand Cross of the Rio Branco)
was awarded to the Ambassador from the
Brazilian government. Ambassador Al-
Kandari speaks Arabic, English and a bit of
Portuguese and Spanish.
ABSARI, DARWIN
JALILUL
Thesis Title: Pagtuhan: Tausug
Gnosis and Living Tradition
Abstract:
Pagtuhan is defined as pangila ha Tuhan
recognition of God which requires
knowledge and witnessing of the object of
knowledge. It is practiced, transmitted, and
kept intact by Taosug Mystics known as
Mukali (literally, diggers). This paper is an

12 SAHIYFAH
ECIAL EDITION
exposition of the philosophy, teachings, and meth-
ods of Pagtuhan, from an exploration of its influ-
ences since the 5th century, until the introduction
of Islam to the communities of the Sulu archipela-
go and Mindanao in the 13th century and onwards
to the spiritual tradition as practiced today.
In this thesis, Pagtuhan is identified as the essence
of Taosug culture and society, the source of their
knowledge, the reason for their bravery, and their
hope for the future.
DELMION, YUSUPER KALIH
Thesis Title: Forging Peace through
Community-based Shura: The Case of
Selected Tribes in Muslim Compound,
Tandang Sora, Quezon City
Abstract:
This study reveals that while elders adopted mod-
ern techniques in conflict resolution, the process of
Shurah as a mechanism for consensus is still being
utilized. Elders forged peace among the conflicting
parties using the community-based shurah, which
involves community level of consensus limited to
settling communal disputes. The communal dis-
putes in this study refer to marital problems such
as divorce cases, simple collection of debt, rental
collection, damaged to property and other minor
disputes.
JALAD, PERRY MAHA
Thesis Title: The Role of the Trained
Asatidz in the Integration of Madrasah
Education under DepEd Curriculum in
Zamboanga City
RAIS CALL FOR PAPERS
What: 6th Round Table Discussion on Islamic Economics
When: 2629 November 2013
Where: Mindanao State University, Tawi-Tawi,, Philippines
Submission of Abstract: 30 June 2013
For Inquiries, call 929.8286 or email uprais2011@gmail.com
July 2012december 2012; January 2013june 2013
Abstract:
This study examined the role of the Asatidh in
Madrasah Education, and the methods and strat-
egies they employ to teach Arabic Language and
Islamic Values Education (ALIVE). It also identi-
fied the support the Asatidh get to enhance their
teaching methods.
Conducted in ten (10) public elementary schools,
the study showed that 96.66 percent of the re-
spondents unanimously agreed that the Asatidh
are the most important instruments to reduce
illiteracy Mindanao wide, and, in particular,
Zamboanga City. Majority of the Asatidh be-
lieve that the integration of Madrasah Education
will eventually resolve misunderstanding and
conflict between and among groups of different
cultural practices.
MACARIMBANG, ACMAD
TOQUERO
Thesis Title: Music in the Eyes of
Muslims: Acceptance and Rejection
of Music in Muslim Community
Abstract:
This study examines the acceptability and non-
acceptability of music in the eyes of Muslims,
and defines the attitudes of todays Muslim soci-
ety towards music. The study focuses on genres
of music, how music are accepted and rejected
by the clerics, and how these decisions and infor-
mation are perceived by Muslims. Such deci-
sions and information depend on various inter-
pretations of the Quran and the Sunnah by cler-
ics of different Islamic thoughts.
13

Sintang Dalisay is a Filipino ad- nao. (There is a place called imaginary community that con-
aptation of William Shake-
speares Romeo and Juliet us-
ing an awit version written by
G.D. Roke in 1901 and text
from a translation by the late
National Artist Rolando Tinio.
The Tanghalang Ateneo (TA)
production is directed by Dr.
Ricardo G. Abad and choreo-
graphed by Dr. MCM Santama-
ria. The production design is
the last complete work of the
late National Artist Salvador F.
Bernal.
The production presents a new
dimension in portraying the
classical play about the most
popular tragic-love story of Ro-
meo and Juliet through the in-
fusion of some local and ethnic
elements in its general design.
This version of Shakespeares
Romeo and Juliet shows Filipi-
no creativity at its best as well
as potential of Philippine pro-
ductions to be at par with those
created by international outfits.
The members of the audience
are truly mesmerized as they
witnessed the reinvention of
the Christian context of Romeo
and Juliet into one that is some-
what Islamic. From Verona,
the setting is transferred to
Semporna, an imaginary Is-
lamic community in Minda-
14
feature
Semporna in Sabah, Malaysia.
The appropriation of this
place name may have some-
thing to do with the Sama-
Bajau igal, the dance vocabu-
lary employed by the chore-
ographer. The real Semporna
is known as a predominantly
Sama-Bajau community in
East Malaysia).
As the play unfolds, the
greatest challenge of the cast
was to transport the audience
to an imaginary place where
the people cared so much for
their cultural traditions;
where maidens are bound to
respect the will of their par-
ents in choosing future hus-
bands; where the fight of one
family member is the fight of
the entire family; and, where
the word of the Sultan is
obeyed without question.
This is the (re)constructed
cultural milieu of Sintang Da-
lisay, a world where the de-
cidedly Christian Romeo and
Juliet gives way to the decid-
edly Muslim Rashiddin and
Jamila.
As a student of Philippine
Studies (and Islamic Studies),
I do not see any problems in
contextualizing the play in an
By Prof. Macrina A. Morados
tains some visible Islamic refer-
ences. I subscribe to the idea of
prominent Muslim scholar Ce-
sar Adib Majul who explained
that when Islam came to the
Philippines, it did not enter a
cultural vacuum. The natives
already have their own belief
systems and traditions. As
such, Majul came up with his
concept of folk Islam in order to
describe the amalgamation of
indigenous and Islamic practic-
es.
Majuls conceptual framework
of folk Islam came to my mind
when I heard the mention of
the word Bismillah in the open-
ing lines of the play. The word
Bismillah is very sacred to Mus-
lims. Literally, it means in the
name of Allah. The entire
Chapters of the Holy Quran
starts with Bismillah (except Su-
rah Tawbah), and Muslims ide-
ally commence any actions by
uttering Bismillah silently or
loudly to invoke the blessings
of Allah. When the character of
the imam uttered the word Bis-
millah it was a signal for me to
see how far Islamic is incorpo-
rated in the play. Academically
however, we cannot do away
with some issues concerning
religious or cultural sensitivity.
SAHIYFAH

I should say that there is
nothing wrong in the mention
of the word Bismillah, howev-
er there are some actions in
the play that do not go very
well with Islamic teachings.
For instance, when the imam
performed prostrations in
prayer, Rashiddin jumped
over his prostrated figure,
thus distracting him. The
character of the imam thereaf-
ter stood up, leaving his pray-
er... which should not be the
case. It is considered unethi-
cal to distract someone who is
in a state of prayer. Also, the
act of multiple prostrations
and bowing, in my mind, was
like seeing people performing
spirit or sun worship. (I have
discussed these points with
the choreographer, and he
has assured me that these ac-
tions will be modified in the
next run... such is the beauty
of learning in the process of
inter-cultural theatre).
The presence of the role of the
imam in the play affirms the
importance of the religious
leader in the community. The
actor (Brian Matthew Sy)
playing the role of the imam is
most excellent in his portray-
al. He is indeed very talent-
ed. He delivered his piece
confidently and spoke like a
native Tausug speaker. There
are some incantations that he
july 2012december 2012; january 2013june 2013
feature
recited that ought to be consid-
ered cultural (or acts of li-
cense) as they do not reflect ac-
tual Islamic doa or prayer.
Furthermore, during the wed-
ding ceremony, the touching of
the brides forehead by the
grooms (Rashiddins) thumb is
supposed to signal the culmina-
tion of the wedding ceremony.
Jamila, however in the same
scene, also touched Rashiddins
forehead. The touching of the
grooms forehead is not done in
the actual Muslim wedding. In
the play however, this act may
be considered innovation or
artistic license, so cute that it
caused some Muslim ladies in
the audience to giggle with ex-
citement.
The free mixing of males and
females during the dancing and
rituals are clearly cultural.
Muslims in the Philippines are
very accommodating unlike
Muslims in some other coun-
tries where strict segregation is
observed. However, rigidity is
in an increase among some
Muslim Filipino religious schol-
ars. An unfortunate incident
happened in Cotabato City. An
aleem (religious scholar)
stopped the dancing and sing-
ing of Maguindanao folk ex-
pressions amidst the enjoyment
of the people who were attend-
ing a wedding ceremony in the
residence of a prominent fami-
ly.
I personally enjoyed the dance
movements in the play. The
choreographer must be com-
mended for his ability in incor-
porating some modern ele-
ments into the Sama-Bajau igal
tradition. This affirms that cul-
ture constantly evolves and can
meet the demand of changing
times brought about by the
forces of modernization and
globalization. The traditional
igal movements like the Tausug
pangalay is reflective of the peo-
ples lifestyle and the environ-
ment in which they live. The
graceful and slow movements
are intended to reflect the slow
pace of communal life away
from the bustle of cities like
Metro Manila. The arm move-
ments mimic the movements of
the waves that the peoples of
the sea encounter in their daily
lives. This is the case even
more so with the Sama Dilaut
(aka Bajau), as most of them
used to live in houseboats.
They are keen observers of na-
ture and appreciate the move-
ments of the leaves of the trees,
believing that trees are in con-
stant dhiker (remembrance of
Allah) as mentioned in the holy
Quran (Surah Al-Hajj 18). In a
higher epistemological level, Is-
lam stresses the continuing com-
munion with nature and things
SINTANG DALISAY / PAGE 20
15

Muqtedar Khan, Ph.D.
The basis for happiness
in this world and the next is
Knowledge
(Plato, Al Farabi and Al Ghaz-
ali)
The Importance of
Social Sciences
There is no doubt in my mind low.
that the diminishing Muslim One area of knowledge that has
vision of knowledge and the been deeply neglected by Mus-
knowledgeable is singularly re- lims is the arena of social scienc-
sponsible for the decline of crea- es. Except for the Islamization of the world ought to be become
tivity, dynamism, vitality and
power of the Islamic civiliza-
tion. Today, without doubt, the
Muslim world lags behind all
other civilizations in its produc-
tion and consumption of
knowledge. Today most Mus-
lims think of knowledge as that
limited to the familiarity with
medieval Muslim understand-
ing of law and jurisprudence.
Scholars are only those who
memorize Quran and the tra-
16
commentaries
This article was published in the May 2004 issue of Islamic
Horizon (USA). It was previously published by Islam 21(UK)
and The Globalist.
ditions and are familiar with to understand the world as it
pedagogical and epistemological is. Ulemas discourses on how
tools developed a thousand
years ago. It is therefore not sur-
prising that under the intellectu-
al leadership of this class of
scholars the Ummah has gone
from one low to another lower
meaningless and therefore in-
Knowledge project and the
effective because they are not
American Journal of Islamic Social
grounded in contemporary re-
Sciences, both initiatives
alities. Very simply, if you do
launched by American Muslims
not understand where you are,
in early 1980s, there has been
even if you know where you
very little attempt by Muslims
have to go, you will go no
to indegenize social sciences.
where.
Social sciences, unlike Islamic
sciences, which are essentially Hence you need social sciences
normative paradigms, have an to understand where you are
empirical focus. Social sciences and put religious knowledge of
are more interested in under- where to go to effective use.
standing and describing the world To put it bluntly, without so-
as it is rather than on postulating cial sciences, traditional Islamic
on how it ought to be. Without be- sciences are useless.
ing prejudicial about what is
The Role of Social
more important, we must realize
Scientists
that while medieval Islamic sci-
ences do provide a view of how The most important function
the world ought to be a thou- that social scientists can per-
sand years ago they do not form is provide our leaders
equip our jurist-scholars with and the attentive public with
the training and tools necessary
SAHIYFAH

an empirical understanding of
our existential conditions. With-
out an accurate analysis of
where we are effective remedial
policies cannot be articulated.
Social scientists provide the in
depth analysis necessary for in-
formed decision making.
The Quran in a beautiful pas-
sage praises those who reflect on
the empirical realities of our
world contemplate the creation
in Surah Al Imran:
Verily in the creation of the
heavens and the earth, and the
alternation of night and day -
there are indeed signs for men of
understanding; Men who re-
member Allah, standing, sit-
ting, and lying down on their
sides,
and contemplate the creation of
the heavens and the earth.
[Quran 3:190-191]
The Quran also exhorts Muslims
to undertake empirical study in
Surah Al Ankabut.
Say: Travel through the earth
and see how Allah originated
creation. [Quran 29:20]
Some countries such as Japan,
India and China have developed
indegenized social scientists
who use advanced analytical
and research skills in the interest
of their nations and provide the
necessary information to make
effective policy. The progress
and growth and development of
these nations are indicative of
July 2012december 2012; January 2013june 2013
commentaries
the success of their social scien- on the most important and
tists. The Muslim world, which pressing issues such as exter-
often looks to the Ulema to ask nal and internal security, ge-
all questions such as is it halal to opolitics, globalization, inter-
eat gummy bears or if one can faith politics, economics, so-
one marry two sisters simultane- cial and public policy and
ously, and is it ok to join the short and long term plan-
WTO and is democracy a good ning. Other issues that they
idea, remains strikingly underde- can enrich are normative dis-
veloped. While the Ulema are cussions based on empirical
trained to answer the first two experience of institutions and
questions, contemporary reality is polities that are best suited
outside their domain. for our times. Social sciences
are now very diverse, very
The success of non-Muslims and
complex and very advanced.
the failure of Muslims in worldly
They deal with issues all
matters can be explained only
across the board and their
through the knowledge deficit
findings impact policy at all
that plagues the Muslim commu-
levels.
nity. The Quran once again is so
clear on this issue: Islamic sciences that were
developed remember they
Allah will raise up to (suitable)
ranks (and degrees) those of you were developed by human
who believe and who have been beings not revealed by God
granted knowledge. [Quran were quite advanced for their
58:11] time and help vitalize the Is-
lamic world and make it a
While I cannot comment on the dominant and thriving civili-
faith of anyone, I can understand zation. However they have
that Allah has raised the West enjoyed little development in
and the Far East to great heights over a thousand years. In Is-
and honor purely because of their lamic Madrassahs syllabi
commitment to freedom of have not been revised in over
thought and knowledge. The best 200 years! All good social sci-
universities and the most produc- entists revise their curricu-
tive work in knowledge accumu- lum every time they teach
lation is taking place in the West their courses. While Islamic
and the Far East. Actually every- sciences have languished,
where except in the Muslim social sciences have ad-
World. vanced. While the former re-
Social scientists must not only be mains a dead tradition the
consulted but also encouraged to latter is alive and growing.
research, speak and write freely
THE ROLE OF SOCIAL / PAGE 21
17
 feature

by Prof. Bobby M. Tuazon

management response beyond a the presidential office) but also

The reported skirmishes manifest intent to save the a solid foreign policy governance
between Malaysian security forc-
peace process with the Moro particularly with respect to the
es and members of the Sulu Roy-
Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Philippines Sabah claim. For 27
al Army (SRA) at Lahad Datu in
which is being facilitated by the years after the fall of the Marcos
the disputed territory of Sabah
Malaysian government. In the dictatorship which pursued
have opened a divisive issue in
inter-agency consultation, the aggressively the sovereignty
the Philippines. The inter-agency
member of the GPH panel, who claim the territorial claim had
round-table discussion on Sabah
is also from OPAPP, tried to be been practically dormant. The
(March 18, 2013) spotted an ap-
tactful by listening to the dis- issue was never pursued, nay,
parent dividing line between on
course, reactions, and recom- was dropped altogether: the 1987
the one hand the Philippine gov-
mendations as she said she Constitution practically removed
ernment caught unprepared on
would primarily but such im- any further claim; it was placed
the hostilities that involved Fili-
perturbation given the delicate in the backburner, says Fidel
pino Muslims and obviously
peace process was disquieting, V. Ramos even if his own sister-
cautious against antagonizing
too, in its failure to offer any senator filed a bill officially ter-
Kuala Lumpur when pressed to
enlightenment on the various minating the claim. Sources from
openly declare its stance on the
questions addressed to the the Department of Foreign Af-
Sabah issue and public opin-
state. At least the representative fairs (DFA) indicated that the
ion, on the other, calling for a
from Congress, who also hails claim had been closed or that
reinstatement of the Philippine
from Mindanao, was candid there was no intention of pursu-
claim on the disputed territory.
enough to caution that the secu- ing the claim any further. Ac-
rity tension could threaten dip- cording to the Sultan, such acts
Discernible in the consultation
lomatic and economic relations prompted the sultanate to with-
are voices concerned that the
with Malaysia but, nonetheless, draw the power of attorney
skirmishes however small-scale
the territorial dispute needed a entrusted to the Philippine gov-
or even asymmetrical as they are
peaceful resolution using the ernment probably indicating
were becoming critical and
machinery of international bod- that the Sulu sultan would fol-
thus warrant a decisive move by
ies. low up the claim by himself.
the Philippine government to
protect the human rights of Fili-
The whole fiasco, however, ex- Whether the SRA insertion into
pino workers and residents in
poses the lack of not only any Sabah was politically motivated
Sabah and prevent the conflict
crisis management system in Malaysia is slated for a national
from deteriorating into a war-
the Aquino administration election and so is the Philippines
crime scenario.
which incidentally also suffers with its mid-term elections in
from a bureaucratic maze (a let- May while the peace process is
Indeed, the government was
ter addressed to the president in the crucial stage of drafting
caught not only flat-footed but
from Sultan Jamalul Kiram III in the Bangsamoro law and form-
also without any crisis-
2010 was lost and never reached ing a transition commission it

18 SAHIYFAH

has just the same become a na-
tional interest issue. There were
strong sentiments in the consulta-
tion including those expressed by
former high-level and regional
officials as well as Mindanao CSO
leaders that the call for revisiting
or reviewing the claim has be-
come moot and academic - con-
sidering that legal and policy-
level deliberations had been done
in the past and what is most an-
ticipated now is an action plan in
pursuit of the claim. A number of
modalities were raised including
reactivating the Philippine claim
before the ICJ, mediation, or even
a military approach. The legal ad-
viser to the Sulu sultan said gov-
ernment had nothing to lose if it
invokes the 1963 Manila Accord
signed between the Philippines,
Malaysia, and Indonesia which
provided that the inclusion of Sa-
bah (formerly North Borneo) in
the Federation of Malaysia was
without prejudice to the Philip-
pine claim. It was also observed
that the peace process should not
be made as a reason for abandon-
ing the Sabah claim.
The complexity of the territorial
claim is borne out of the difficul-
ties in reconciling the need to
move the peace process forward
and coming out with a definitive
state policy on the Sabah claim.
Views diverged on whether to
put the territorial claim in the
agenda of the peace process the
proposed Bangsamoro sub-state
does not mention Sabah or
should be taken up separately. In
july 2012december 2012; january 2013june 2013
feature
both cases, the crucial role of Ma-
laysia in facilitating the peace
talks can be affected and could
derail the process altogether. But
the credibility of Malaysias role
is now being questioned, e.g., it
has lost its moral ascendancy in
facilitating the peace talks be-
cause of rights violations alleged-
ly perpetrated against Filipinos
in Sabah in the wake of the
fighting and for its hard-line
stance on the Sabah issue, i.e.,
that it is a dead issue.
The mishandling of the Sabah
issue attests to a failure of the
state in upholding a sovereignty
claim which is said to have a
strong historical and legal basis
anyway. High time, therefore, for
harnessing a multi-stakeholders
approach as an important mecha-
nism in pursuing a territorial
claim of national import. This
should welcome the assistance in
policy strategizing offered by the
UP president through the univer-
sitys policy think tanks and oth-
er resources. There have been
concerns raised about the short-
age of policy strategizing in the
national government particularly
in foreign affairs which has been
found to be devoid of a compre-
hensive policy.
The author is the
Director for Policy Studies of
CENPEG (Center for People Empow-
erment in Governance )
RTD in Basilan, from Page 11
his students to demonstrate the
use of modern technology in
facilitating learning and kept IS
students abreast with the latest
software technologies.
Prof. Abdulgafur Taha of the
Bangsamoro Development
Agency discussed the Frame-
work Agreement on Bangsamo-
ro during this Public Forum, a
section of the RTD devoted to
discussion of important and
critical issues, an events taking
place in Moro society. The fo-
rum raised many questions
from the floor regarding the
content of the agreement.
The different papers generated
a lively open forum. Questions
and comments from the partici-
pants were both appreciative
and probing regarding the dif-
ferent topics presented.
A Business Meeting among
RAIS members was held in the
evening and was presided by
Dr. Abubakar. The body agreed
to hold the 2013 RTD on the
third week of October and fo-
cus on the topic Islamic Eco-
nomics. Dean Magsaysay Wer-
ble of MSU Tawi-Tawi told
RAIS that the chancellor was
already committed to support
the next RTD.
The RTD was capped by a tour
of the BSC campus in Lamitan
organized by BSC on the third
day.
19

Sintang Dalisay, from Page 15
surrounding us in order to see and
witness the essence of God in them.
In short, nature speaks the pres-
ence and existence of God.
As I recognize igal as an alluring
form of sensual dance, I must also
state that its practice contain cul-
tural norms and values that dictate
what is allowed and what is not.
This is evident in the dance of the
stars (sayaw ng mga bituin) where
young women displayed their
grace and beauty in order to find
their future partners, in the same
manner that the young men
showed their manliness and agility,
in order to win their future wives.
However, in reality, young women
cannot always get what they want
because parents can arrange their
marriages. This practice is more
cultural than Islamic. In marriage,
Islam teaches that the consent of
the bride to be must be freely given
and must not be forced or coerced.
In Sintang Dalisay, this cultural tra-
dition of arranged marriage is
highlighted when Jamilas father
agreed to marry her off to Datu Pi-
andao. In real life, this is still hap-
pening especially in some remote
areas in the southern Philippines.
Another depiction portrayed in the
play which is more cultural than
Islamic is the use of a female char-
acter as Lakambini, the ruler of the
community. For me this is a good
twist from the reality of place
where men are increasingly domi-
nant. In reality, the spaces of pow-
20
feature
er for Muslim women are restrict-
ed and mostly confined to spaces
at home. The gesture of bowing
before the Lakambini and taking
her words with fear and respect
should therefore be taken as al-
lowable forms of artistic license
that deviates from the actual posi-
tion of women in typical Muslim
communities.
One of the good values depicted
in the play which, in my opinion,
the youth of today ought to emu-
late is the return to that morally
commendable way of looking at
relationships between lovers. The
decision of Rashiddin and Jamila
to be wedded, even without the
consent of Jamilas parents, is for
me a strong statement against pre
-marital sex. The value given by
Jamila to puri or, in this case, vir-
ginity is likewise commendable
from a Muslim perspective. Los-
ing virginity outside marriage is
something that is discouraged
(Zina) and frowned upon, and is
tantamount to besmirching the
reputation of the family. Hence,
Muslim girls are taught to be
modest and to guard their chasti-
ty at all cost.
In terms of portraying intimacy,
which is unavoidable in a love
story, I must say that the love sce-
ne rendered in igal form in Sin-
tang Dalisay is delivered with so
much grace. It is, beyond doubt,
artistically crafted, and it re- Sintang Dalisay, therefore,
mained in the sensual level leav- poignantly reminds the pre-
ing the members of the audi-
ence free to indulge in the
creation of seduction in their
minds. Going through the
scene is like engaging in jour-
ney of passions where the
ones sensual nerves are
locked in suspension, just at
the edge of reality and illu-
sion. The suggestive motions
of the lovers arms and their
body movements personify
igal at the height of enchant-
ment. It is to date the most
decent and the most passion-
ate, yet very professional, in-
timate scene that I have ever
witnessed onstage.
The most touching part of the
play is the lovers death scene
framed by the remorseful
imam, Jamilas parents, the
Lakambini, and the members
of the Kalimuddin and Mus-
tafa clans. This part truly
captured the hearts of the
members of the audience...
not for the reason of approv-
ing of suicide but for the pa-
thos of the lovers ultimate
sacrifice. Here love and loy-
alty transcend the value of
material things in this world.
Its portrayal successfully
crossed cultural taboos, even
the supposed paramount val-
ue of submitting to parental
desires.
SAHIYFAH
 feature

The Role of Social...from page 17

sent generation of Filipinos of Social sciences have also added Is- Muslim social scientists
the richness of classical litera- lamic studies to their realm and stepped up to the plate and
ture expressing universal have developed a more nuanced, addressed some of these is-
themes and empowered more sophisticated and even em- sues. The community needs
through the use of local perfor- powering vision of Islam by cri- new vision and new direc-
mance traditions. (Yes, Romeo tiquing and building upon tradi- tion. In academic journals and
and Juliet or Sintang Dalisay is tional Islamic sciences. Today it is conferences Muslim social sci-
quite similar to the story of Ab- easy to find Muslim social and hu- entists have provided sophis-
dullah and Putri Isarah in the manities scholars who are also ticated analysis of our condi-
Tausug Parang Sabil Kissa. This
trained in traditions methods, who tion and also enlightening
narrative will however require
now empowered by new episte- pathways for a better and
another article to discuss fully).
mologies and are doing wonderful more secure future for all. It
If I were to rate Sintang Dalisay research that if the Ummah were to is now up to the community
as a work of inter-cultural thea- embrace would resuscitate the leaders to connect the output
tre, I will give it a 9. I withhold community. of these scholars with the di-
giving the extra point towards Today the knowledge to revive rection of the community.
perfection so as to pose a chal- and develop the Islamic Ummah is Scholars by nature are isola-
lenge to the people behind the available. It is time the community tionists. They need seclusion
production to search for even
recognizes that the for centuries we to think, research and write. It
more cultural contexts that they
have failed to become leaders of is not fair to expect them to
may include in the next run
humanity and fulfill our mandate come forward, some do like
which I look forward to with
as Allahs vicegerents on earth yours truly, but the communi-
great anticipation. Let us focus
on issues that can help us pro- (Quran 2:30) is because we have ty must also seek them and
mote our rich cultural heritage surrendered our vision, our faith seek their guidance.
as a people regardless of ethnic and our reason to deadwood. The future belongs to those
affiliations. Let us conquer the Power is a function of knowledge. who have thought the deep-
world with our beautiful tradi- Say: Are those equal, those who est about it.
tions. know and those who do not know?
-oOo-
[Quran 39:9]
Prof. Macrina A. Morados M. A. Muqtedar Khan is
is the College Secretary of the The Ummah is powerless because Director of International Studies
UP Institute of Islamic Studies. those who they consider as knowl- & Chair, Political Science Depart-
edgeable have failed for over 500 ment at Adrian College. He is a
(This article was originally pub- years to provide us with an em- non-resident fellow at the Brook-
lished on Some Lessons in inter- powering vision. ings Institution. He is the author
cultural theatre in Business Mir- of American Muslims: Bridging
ror, 11 December 2012; can be Faith and Freedom (2002) and
accessed at h t t p : / / American Muslims now live in Jihad for Jerusalem: Identity and
businessmirror.com.ph.index) times where the basic objectives Strategy in International Politics
and even values of the community (2004). He writes and maintains
are questioned. It is time American www.ijtihad.org.

July 2012december 2012; January 2013june 2013 21

 commentaries
Selected lines from
Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
The Moving Finger writes; and, having writ,
Moves on: nor all thy Piety nor Wit
Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line,
Nor all thy Tears wash out a Word of it.
And that inverted Bowl we call The Sky,
Whereunder crawling co-opt we live and die,
Lift not thy hands to It for help - for It
Rolls impotently on as Thou or I.
With Earth's first Clay They did the Last Man's knead,
And then of the Last Harvest sow'd the Seed:
Yea, the first Morning of Creation wrote
What the Last Dawn of Reckoning shall read.
I tell Thee this - When, starting from the Goal,
Over the shoulders of the flaming Foal
Of Heav'n Parwin and Mushtara they flung,
In my predestind Plot of Dust and Soul.
The Vine had struck a Fibre; which about
If clings my Being - let the Sufi flout;
Of my Base Metal may be filed a Key,
That shall unlock the Door he howls without.
And this I know: whether the one True Light,
Kindle to Love, or Wrath consume me quite,
One glimpse of It within the Tavern caught
Better than in the Temple lost outright.
Oh, Thou, who didst - with Pitfall and with Gin
Beset the Road I was to wander in,
Thou wilt not with Predestination round
Enmesh me, and impute my Fall to Sin?
Oh, Thou, who Man of baser Earth didst make,
And who with Eden didst devise the Snake;
For all the Sin where with the Face of Man
Is blacken'd, Man's Forgiveness give - and take!
22
Keynote Speech, from page 23
Reference: www.scide.net/science
communication/sciencepublishing.
Southeastasiannation
These developments are con-
sidered to be a big challenge
in the academic world to step
up and be strong in the global
arena, in terms of research
and program offerings accord-
ing to global standards. In a
nutshell, Philippine universi-
ties and colleges should be
willing to embrace the so-
called a Cross-Border Educa-
tion as it leads to that direc-
tion.
On the part of the college, we
are still strengthening re-
search, but this administration
through the effort of the Di-
rector for Research and other
faculty members, we were
able to present and published
five (5) researches both na-
tionally and internationally
for the SY 2011-2012. While
we are still far behind in terms
of research output since our
college is small at least we
have started and continue to
enjoin everyone to undertake
more researches.
Again, thank you for being
here with us and I hope you
will enjoy the atmosphere of
our college and the province
of Basilan. Welcome!
Thank you and good day.
SAHIYFAH
Keynote Speech, from page 24

state in meeting the needs ence and Technology, Na-

created by growth and tional University of Singa- Sahiyfah
Newsletter
changing technologies. pore and Seoul National
University are in the top 1,
Hence, Research and De- 2 and 4, respectively; nev-
velopment are important in ertheless, University of the is a bi-annual publication of the
any institution. For this Philippines was in the top Research, Publication
will not only augment our 68, Ateneo de Manila in top & Extension Division (RPED),
institutional budget but al- 86, De La Salle top 142, Institute of Islamic Studies,
so expand our linkages University of Sto. Tomas University of the Philippines
with other funding institu- 148 and 251300 was the Diliman
tions both locally and inter- University of Southeastern
nationally. Philippines of Davao City. Dr. Carmen A. Abubakar
Editor
More significantly research Thailand and Malaysia
output publish in national showed the greatest in- Leila A. Halud
and international publica- crease in publication rate News & Feature
tions is a gauge or a crite- skill Indonesia and the
ria in ranking universities Philippines had less.
and colleges. According to Maria N. Cabacungan
Times Higher Education Layout
Here is the list of Asian
(THED) 2012, no Philippine countries and their publica-
university entered the top tion status: Prof. Macrina Morados
400 worldwide universities Muqtedar Khan, Ph.D.
because 30% of the criteria Singapore 45% paper pub- Prof. Bobby Tuazon
are research volume pre- lished Kamaruddin Mohammad
sented or published and Thailand 21% paper pub- Najeeb Sali
another 30% for research lished
Contributors
influence. In other words, Malaysia 16% paper pub-
Philippine universities andlished
colleges do not have Vietnam 6% paper pub- This issue is sponsored by
enough significant num- lished H.E. MOHAMMAD BIN JOBAIR,
bers of researches with Indonesia 5% paper pub- Late President, Majlis as Shura,
quality standards com- lished Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Philippines 5% paper pub-
pared with other universi-
lished
ties world wide.
Brunei, Cambodia, Laos
and Mayanmar together Tel. No. 981-8500 loc. 3584
However, in the Asian Uni-
produced 2% paper pub- Email: iis@up.edu.ph.
versity ranking 2012, lished
Website: http://upd.edu.ph/~iis/
Hongkong University Sci-

KEYNOTE SPEECH / PAGE 22

July 2012 December 2012; January 2013June 2013 23

 feature

Keynote Speech
Dr. Nasser A. Salain, Al-Hadj
President, Basilan State College
5th Round Table Discussion on Islamic Research
17 December 2012 , BSC Student Centre

Our distinguished guests headed by Dr. Carmen A. Abubakar, President of the Research
Association for Islamic Social Sciences, Inc. (RAIS), Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi, Dean of the Institute of
Islamic Studies, Hon. Alzad Sattar, Undersecretary, Bureau of Madaris Education, ARMM, Prof.
Macrina A. Morados, Secretary of the Institute of Islamic Studies, Dr. Aboukhair Tarasun, Ust. Al
Basher Ismael, Dean, IIS, Basilan State College, Prof. Filemon, Director, Coastal Resources manager
Center, MSU-Tawi-Tawi, Prof. Talib A. Benito, Professor, KFCIAAS, MSU Marawi, Prof. Maulawi
Calimba, Chair, Islamic Studies Dept., MSU Gen. Santos, Prof. Magsayssay Werble, Dean, College
of Islamic and Arabic Studies, MSU Tawi-Tawi, faculty, staff and participants, Good Morning.

Assalamu alaykum warah matulahi taala wa barakatu!

Today, we have two separate important events: the Orientation of the Accreditation and RTD Is-
lamic Research. The college is very grateful and overwhelmed for this opportunity to host this
Round Table Discussion on Islamic Research. It is our pride and honor to be part and to provide
assistance especially in areas of research with these three (3) organizations namely; the Institute of
Islamic Studies, Research Association for Islamic Social Sciences, Inc. (RAIS) and the Bureau of Ma-
daris Education of ARMM.

Research is one of our mandates as an institution of higher learning. It is important to universities

and colleges, because continuing, adequately-funded research program allows us to build and
maintain high-quality researchers as well as our human resources, and it opens the path for the
graduate students to work on and learn from research projects. Most importantly, research can
boost the level of our college to fulfill our humble ambition to be one of the universities in the re-
gion Insha-Allah.

According to CreswellResearch is a process of steps used to collect and analyze information to

increase our understanding of a topic or issue. It consists of three steps: Pose a question, collect
data to answer the question, and present an answer to the question. It is also the result of advanc-
ing knowledge created in the past. Designed to solve a particular problem, requires time, effort,
and sometimes money to have the evidence you need to make a sound decision thats why many
avoid it. It is very vital to our everyday decision making. It arms us from wrong information and
save time and money. It is important to our success as we take on lifes challenges and career deci-
sions making. It is also important to the society because it assists the
KEYNOTE SPEECH / PAGE 23

24 SAHIYFAH