Lanao del Sur: Government officials in Lanao del Sur province welcomed the enactment of Republic Act 12160, officially known as the Philippine Islamic Burial Act, a landmark legislation designed to uphold religious traditions in the burial of Muslim Filipinos.

According to Philippines News Agency, Second District Rep. Yasser Balindong stated that the new law mandates the prompt burial of deceased Muslims, ideally within 24 hours of death, in accordance with Islamic rites and practices. Balindong emphasized that the legislation also stipulates that the non-payment of hospital bills or other similar charges cannot be used as a valid reason to delay the release of a deceased Muslim's body beyond the essential 24-hour timeframe.

First District Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Adiong highlighted that the law honors the sacred obligation of ensuring the dignified and timely burial of Muslim Filipinos. He noted, "This is more than just a policy. It is a powerful reaffirmation of our fundamental right to religious freedom and cultural dignity."

While the established Islamic practices for the burial of the deceased are already observed within Muslim communities, the new law formalizes proper protocols for the respectful handling of Muslim cadavers within hospital and funeral facilities nationwide.