By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora
MANILA – The first group of 376 Filipinos arrived in Madinah to participate in the annual Hajj pilgrimage, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Wednesday.
The agency said the pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday aboard the Saudia flight 861, officially commencing their journey for Hajj 2025.
This year’s Hajj pilgrimage is set to take place from June 4 to 9 (8–13 Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar), drawing millions of Muslims from around the world to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
“The arrival of the Filipino delegation highlights the enduring partnership between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia, reflecting a shared commitment to providing Filipino Muslims with a safe, meaningful, and spiritually enriching Hajj experience,” the DFA said.
Upon arrival, the pilgrims were greeted with fragrant roses and Ajwa dates, traditional symbols of Saudi hospitality and blessings.
The DFA Hajj teams also distributed refreshments, ensuring the comfort and well-being of the pilgrims after their journey.
The nationals were received by Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Raymond Balatbat, Consul General Rommel Romato from the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah, National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) Hajj Attaché OIC Omar Mandia, Assistant Director Lemuel Lopez of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Office of Migrant Affairs, as well as representatives from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, among others.
The Hajj, the pilgrimage to Islam’s holiest site Kaaba in Mecca, is one of the five pillars of Islam. (PNA)
