The City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, joined provincial leaders and communities in celebrating the 52nd Provincial Founding Anniversary of Basilan/Tennun Pakaradjaan through a Grand Iftar, March 7, at the Provincial Capitol in Lamitan City.
The program formed part of the Tennun Pakaradjaan sa Ramadhan Basilan 2026, highlighting solidarity, spirituality, and cultural celebration during the holy month of Ramadhan.
Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing the province’s continued progress and its strong commitment to peace, unity, and development.
Mayor Turabin-Hataman personally graced the celebration, and in her message, highlighted the significance of this year’s occasion, noting that the holy month of Ramadhan coincides with the Tennun Pakaradjaan and the 52nd Provincial Founding Anniversary of Basilan. She also recognized that this year marks the first Pakaradjaan celebration under the leadership of Governor Mujiv Hataman. The mayor also shared reflections on the recent Basilan feature in the Murillo Velarde Bulletin, emphasizing that Basilan has long been part of the nation’s history and identity, and that the province continues to assert its rightful place on the map through its culture, resilience, and progress.
Senator Robinhood Padilla also extended his warm greetings, congratulating every Basileño on this special occasion. In his message, he recognized Basilan’s rich culture, resilience, and the strong unity of its people, expressing his support for the province’s continued progress, peace, and development.
Basilan’s Ambassador of Goodwill and Halal Influencer Queenie Padilla likewise delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking message, emphasizing the values of compassion, faith, and service to others during the sacred month of Ramadhan.
The event opened with a Qur’an reading followed by an invocation led by Sheikh Munir Muluk, Deputy Mufti for Isabela City, and Bishop Leo Dalmao of the Prelature of Isabela de Basilan, symbolizing the province’s spirit of interfaith solidarity and unity.
The welcome remarks of Basilan Vice Governor Jim Hataman-Salliman were delivered by Dr. Noor Ladjagais. The program also featured a Nasiha from Dr. Aboulkhair Tarason, chair of the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council and Mufti of Darul Ift Basilan.
A message of support was also delivered by Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay, reaffirming the shared commitment of local leaders to unity and inclusive development in Basilan.
The program included the presentation of the Pakaradjaan summary video, followed by the Grand Iftar during the Azaan, where attendees gathered in fellowship to break their fast together.
An awarding ceremony was also held recognizing the winners of several competitions, including the Masaajid of the World: Miniature Masjid Competition, Tennun-Inspired Gamis and Abaya Making Contest, Ramadhan-Inspired Office Decoration Contest, and the Inter-Department Cooking Contest, alongside the showcasing of Agro-Industrial Booths.
The celebration concluded with a much-anticipated raffle draw, which brought excitement among the attendees as they awaited the announcement of the lucky winners. Adding to the significance of the moment, Governor Hataman personally joined the raffle and announced the winners of the motorcycle grand prizes, drawing enthusiastic responses from the crowd.
The program concluded with a closing du’a, marking a meaningful gathering of leaders, communities, and faith groups in celebration of Basilan’s rich history and the spirit of Ramadan. (Words by KC Lim/Photos by KY Sencio, IsaTV)
