According to the public relations report of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, the 49th National Quran Reading Competition under the title "Qur'an: Healing the Wounds through a United Umma" based on a verses of the Holy Qur'an (وننـزل من الْقرْآن ما هو شفاءٌ ورحْمةٌ للْمؤْمنین)   with the presence of Abdul Majeed Abul Qasimi, our country's Cultural Counselor in Manila, Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr. Minister of Interior and Local Government, Sebodin N. Abdul Rahim, the new secretary of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), Michael Mito-Ann J. Ali, Director OIC of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Mr. Tahir S. The meeting of the executive director, commissioners, office managers, staff managers, regional managers, director of special affairs, heads of provinces, top national and international reciters and ambassadors of Islamic countries in the Philippines was held at the venue of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association.

 

The program began with the recitation of several verses from the Holy Quran and the national anthem of the Philippines, and the moderator introduced the diplomats present at the event and explained about the 49th National Quran Reading Competition.

 

Tahir S. Lidasan, executive director of NCMF, said: No words can describe or correctly reflect the beauty and importance of the National Quran Reading Competition. In the mind and heart of every Filipino Muslim, the Holy Quran expresses the essence of Islamic faith and our way of life, and this true light remains in our daily lives.

He continued: The real goal of the National Quran Reading Competition is to establish and maintain a closer relationship between us Muslims and our Holy Book. Reciting the wonderful commandments makes us part of a religion that promotes peace, understanding, love and friendship among people of the Book, Muslims and non-Muslims.

Tahir S. Lidasan stated: The Holy Quran has light, guidance, eloquence and openness and speaks to our hearts and souls. However, what makes this event more meaningful is the presence and closer cooperation between two national institutions, and I refer to the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and its supervisory body, the Department of the Interior and the local government led by their two leaders, Ministers Abalos and Abdul Rahim.

 

Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr., Minister of Interior and Local Government, highlighted the significance about the importance of holding Holy Quran competitions.

 

Sabodin N. Abdur Rahim, the new secretary of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), stated: Indeed, the Qur'an guides the most appropriate path and gives good news to believers who do righteous deeds, which will be a great reward for them.