Muslim event Negros Oriental prepares security for Tabligue

CEBU, Philippines — Security preparations are now underway for the conduct of  a Muslim missionary movement, dubbed as Tabligue, in 11 sites all over the country, one of  the venues of which is in Dauin, Negros Oriental in mid October next month.

Inspector Bernabe Rubio, Dauin Police OIC chief, has confirmed that Sultan Tati has offered his place in Maayong Tubig Dauin, as the venue for the Tabligue in Negros Oriental.

It was learned that an estimated 1,000 participants will join the activity including foreigners, prompting the local police to already expressed concern about their security.

A concern was raised about the security of participants considering that the two-day religious activity falls within the duration of the Buglasan Festival which will commence in October 16.

In last week's meeting with Task Force Lion Kilat members, stakeholders and security forces, Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Remollo asked for a detailed security plan considering that the city is the gateway to Dauin.

In an interview, Remollo said it was agreed in the meeting to request for the postponement of the Tabligue in Dauin because it will coincide with three major activities of the city and the province of Negros Oriental-Buglasan, the University Games, and the anniversary of Saint Paul University.

Remollo said there might not be enough security personnel to protect all the guests and visitors including residents.

However, there is no decision yet either to postpone or cancel Tabligue, but the Dauin Police said the date of the event is already fixed under the Muslim calendar.

Rubio said Sultan Tati is open to the idea of installing CCTV cameras inside the compound where the religious activity will be conducted for transparency.

The Tabligue preaches that Muslims should replicate the life of Prophet Muhammad and that it is Muslims's duty to travel around the world to convert non-believers to "the one truth faith." (FREEMAN)