The Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority (BPA) led by Pilgrimage Operation Division Chief Al-Kasmer Ko, paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the Wali of Bangsamoro. Held at the Official Residence of the Wali, the delegation was warmly greeted by Officer-In-Charge Omarkhalid A. Ampatuan along with Executive Assistant IV Sheikh Mohidden A. Mohammad, Executive Assistant III Sheikh Maceda M. Interino and Chief Administrative Officer for Protocol and Other Services Makakua M. Buat. The visit is part of Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority office-to-office outreach strategy, which aimed at explaining the office’s mandate and functions within BARMM.

Created under Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No.13, Sections 43-48, the Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority is” primarily responsible for the administration of the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of pilgrims from within the Bangsamoro. It shall formulate and implement programs, projects and activities for the efficient and effective administration and supervision of the conduct of pilgrimage activities of Bangsamoro pilgrims.”The Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority is an attached agency of Office of the Chief Minister. However, they attained Fiscal Autonomy in February of 2022.

During the said visit, the BPA were able to discuss their mandates and functions as mentioned in Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 13, its importance to the Bangsamoro and its distinction to the Bureau of Pilgrimage and Endowment of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos. Issues pertaining to accommodation, transportation, foods, and other logistical concerns were also tackled during the visit. Furthermore, the BPA were able to discuss the importance of Hajj (Pilgrimage) to the lives of the Muslims and its significance to the employees of the Office of the Wali present in the said visitation.

Poised by the dedication to serve the Bangsamoro, the Office of the Wali of Bangsamoro is committed to collaborate with Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority to be a steadfast partner in pilgrimage matters. This willingness shows an important move towards working together with the aim of making the pilgrimage better and memorable for the Bangsamoro pilgrims.