Makati City, Philippines — Dr. Kadil M. Sinolinding Jr., Minister of Health and Member of Parliament in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), showcased the groundbreaking Ibadah-Friendly Health Facility (IFHF) Program at the Doctors in Dawah event held on December 14-15, 2024, at the Berjaya Hotel.

The event, themed “Integrating Islamic Principles in Primary Health Care: A Multi-Sectoral Approach,” brought together healthcare professionals from across the Philippines. Dr. Sinolinding, the keynote speaker, presented the IFHF Program, a faith-based healthcare initiative designed to harmonize medical services with Islamic values.

“Through the Ibadah-Friendly Health Facility Program, we strive to balance quality healthcare delivery with respect for Islamic values. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering moral governance and culturally sensitive healthcare,” Dr. Sinolinding stated.

Aligned with BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim’s vision of moral governance, the IFHF Program ensures that healthcare services are accessible and accommodating to Muslim patients and staff. It aims to certify facilities that meet IFHF standards, emphasizing cultural sensitivity in public health.

Dr. Sinolinding shared updates on the program’s progress, best practices, and its roadmap for 2022-2025. He emphasized its potential to inspire other regions to adopt culturally inclusive practices.

“This program highlights the importance of embedding compassion, ethical awareness, and religious considerations into healthcare systems,” Dr. Sinolinding added.

The initiative serves as a model for incorporating cultural and religious considerations into public health systems, setting a new standard for healthcare across the Philippines.