Philippine Islamic Burial Act finally signed into law by President Bongbong Marcos.
Republic Act 12160, also known as the Philippine Islamic Burial Act, was finally signed by President Bongbong Marcos.
The Republic Act No. 12160, or the Philippine Islamic Burial Act, was signed by President Bongbong Marcos, and for Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, this is a significant moment that shows the country’s commitment to genuine inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and human dignity.
This law mandates the immediate burial of Muslim bodies according to their Islamic customs and religious rites. Romualdez said in a statement that the law underscores not only passing policies but also honoring the faith, identity, and traditions of the people even in their final days.
What is Republic Act 12160, also known as the Philippine Islamic Burial Act?
Under this law, Muslim burials must be done immediately, even without the death certificate. The person who performed the burial or the deceased’s next of kin must report the death of the person within 14 days to the local health officer. By then, the death certificate will be issued, and the cause of death will be determined.
“For burial purposes, in accordance with Islamic rites, Muslim cadavers shall be released within 24 hours by the hospital, medical clinic, funeral parlor, morgue, custodial and prison facilities, or other similar facilities, or persons who are in actual care or custody of the cadaver,” the law also read.
The dead body must be wrapped in white cloth and put inside an airtight, leak-proof bag or wooden box. This should then be sealed with zippers, tape, or bandage strips.
To those who won’t follow the law by refusing to release the Muslim body for unjustified reasons, such as unpaid hospital or funeral fees, will face jail time for one to six months, a fine of Php 50,000.00 to Php 100,000.00, or both.
“Within 120 days from the effectivity of this Act, the Department of Health and the National Commission for Muslim Filipinos shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act.”
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