Be sensitive to Marawi evacuees' needs, donors reminded

MANILA, Philippines — Donors to relief operations for those affected by clashes in Marawi City should keep in mind the particular needs of the predominantly Muslim residents of the city.

 

In a tweet, Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo reminded the public that Marawi is an Islamic city and that donors should consider Islamic culture when donating to those displaced by fighting that has gripped the capital of Lanao del Sur province since May 23.

 

 

 

Donors are encouraged to give Halal food, which includes beef, fish and chicken. Hotdogs, sausages and meatloaf may contain pork, which Muslims are forbidden from eating. 

 

While instant noodles are welcome, donating variants that are flavored with pork is discouraged.

 

Evacuees will also need clothing, as well as hijabs and taqiyah. Clothes that would cover the entire body are encouraged.

 

The Department of Social Welfare and Development as well as the Office of the Vice President have both called for donations to be sent to Marawi, as have many other volunteer groups.

 

The DSWD has already sent food packs and non-food items last week. The OVP has also delivered food packs and other non-food items to Iligan City.

 

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has also been working with the Lanao del Sur provincial government on relief operations for thousands who have been displaced and thousands others still trapped in the city.

 

READ: Rescue, relief for residents displaced by Marawi clashes continue

 

President Rodrigo Duterte last week declared martial law in Mindanao after members of the Philippine military and police clashed with the Maute group in Marawi City.

 

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said that declaring martial law in Mindanao was necessary to "suppress lawless violence and rebellion."

 

READ: Duterte declares martial law in Mindanao

 

-- Kristian Javier