Photo credit: National Commission on Muslim Filipinos - Public Information

It was a moment of immense pride for the Philippines when Raihana G. Ambangala, a 28-year-old from Pikit, North Cotabato, took the spotlight at the 64th International Al-Qur’an Recital and Memorisation Assembly in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Competing against 13 other participants in the female recital category, Ambangala secured an impressive second place, with Malaysia claiming the top spot and Indonesia rounding out the top three. This victory, according to National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim, is a testament to Filipino talent on the global stage.

“We're overjoyed to share this triumph with not just the Muslim community but with the entire nation,” said Secretary Abdurahim. “Just like our athletes who bring home pride, our fellow Filipinos who excel in international competitions deserve recognition. Raihana’s achievement in a prestigious event hosted annually by Malaysia since 1961 is a national honor.”

For Ambangala, this isn't her first brush with international recognition. She previously placed fifth in the same competition back in 2018 and even claimed victory in a Qur’an reading contest in Brunei in 2015. Her resilience and dedication paid off once again this year as she proudly represented the country among participants from 71 countries worldwide.

Speaking after her victory, the mother of two shared her plans for the future: “I plan to start a small business with the prize money. Also, I hope to compete again next year.” Her unwavering commitment to her craft continues to inspire many young Filipinos, particularly in the Muslim community, proving that success comes through perseverance and faith.

Looking Ahead: Bringing the International Qur’an Reading Competition to the Philippines

Building on this momentum, Secretary Abdurahim announced plans to propose hosting an International Qur’an Reading Competition (IQRC) in the Philippines in 2026. The timing aligns with the country's hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit that year, offering a unique opportunity to highlight the nation's cultural diversity on a global stage.

“It’s been decades since the Philippines hosted an IQRC,” Abdurahim said. “This isn’t just a religious event; it’s a chance to promote indigenous culture and unity in line with our Constitution’s principles.”

To make this vision a reality, the NCMF aims to collaborate with the National Organizing Council (NOC) for ASEAN 2026, which was established under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s leadership. With the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) involved in the planning, the NCMF hopes to showcase the beauty of Islamic teachings, which advocate for peace, charity, and coexistence.

“A Philippine-hosted IQRC would not only celebrate our nation’s diversity but also foster greater understanding of Islam,” Abdurahim added. “It’s a step towards peace and cultural appreciation, perfectly in line with the ASEAN Plus Three’s socio-cultural cooperation goals.”

Raihana Ambangala’s remarkable achievement is more than just a win; it’s a story of hope, faith, and national pride that resonates far beyond the competition. It’s a reminder that wherever Filipinos go, they continue to make their mark, one inspiring feat at a time.