They bring Protest to Commission on Appointments, emphasizing that appointing a non-Muslim to this position is highly inappropriate given the religious and cultural significance of Saudi Arabia.

MANILA, Philippines – A coalition of prominent Muslim leaders, scholars, and Islamic and civic organizations have united in strong opposition against the ad interim appointment of Raymond R. Balatbat as the Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia.

The coalition has formally lodged a protest with the Commission on Appointments, emphasizing that appointing a non-Muslim to this position is highly inappropriate given the religious and cultural significance of Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Camad Mangotara Ali, Chairman/President of the SPMUDA International Organization for Peace Development, SPMUDA International Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and ICNMP Federation of Royal Noble Houses in the Philippines, along with Sultan Saad I. Amate, President of the United Imam of the Philippines, spearheaded the protest.

They were joined by other influential figures including Mufti Mohammad Atiya M. Amanoddin, National Mufti of the Philippines and President of the Philippine Council for Masajid Under the Muslim World League, Sheikh Abdulhadie Ibn As-Shaheed Gumander, Chairman of the Foundational and Advisory Council of the Philippine Organization for Islamic Heritage, and Aleem Abdulbasit Ampaso Hajinor, President of the Ulama & Professionals Conference of the Philippines.

In their formal protest, the leaders highlighted that Saudi Arabia, as the birthplace of Islam and home to its two holiest cities, Makkah and Al-Madinah, demands an ambassador who deeply understands Islamic traditions, Sharia law, and Arabic culture. Despite his diplomatic experience, Mr. Balatbat does not possess these critical qualifications.

The coalition pointed out that they had previously nominated a highly qualified Muslim-Arabic-speaking candidate with 25 years of experience in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing his significant contributions, such as saving the life of former OFW Dondon Celestino Lanuza on death row.

The protest underscores the strategic importance of having a Muslim ambassador in Saudi Arabia, particularly given the high tensions in the Middle East, including the ongoing war between Palestine and Israel. A Muslim ambassador, fluent in Arabic, would provide comfort and facilitate effective communication with Arab nations during crises. The leaders cited historical precedence, recalling that during King Faisal’s reign, the Philippines was exempted from an oil embargo due to having a Muslim ambassador, demonstrating the diplomatic advantages of such an appointment.

The protest letter strongly urges the Commission on Appointments to reconsider Mr. Balatbat’s nomination and appoint the qualified Muslim Arabic-speaking candidate, who has extensive experience in Saudi Arabia. This appointment, they argue, would honor the religious and cultural sensitivities of the host country, enhance diplomatic relations, and ensure effective and respectful representation of the Philippines in the Kingdom.

The coalition’s formal protest has been received by the Commission on Appointments, marking a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about diplomatic representation and cultural sensitivity in international relations. (PR)