Senatorial candidate Sorsogon Governor Francis ‘’Chiz’’ Escudero plans to establish interfaith cemeteries around the country.
Escudero said he hopes to institutionalize this through a legislation that he would introduce if and when he wins again a seat in the 24-member Senate in the May 9, 2022 elections.
According to Escudero, the idea is to put all people of faith under one roof in every province and municipality across the country to allow them to bury their loved ones in accordance with their respective customs and traditions, just like in Sorsogon which hosts two interfaith cemeteries located in the towns of Pilar and Casiguran.
Escudero, a veteran lawmaker, underscored the need for interfaith cemeteries particularly for the indigenous peoples and Muslims communities who strictly observe their funeral rites based on their deep tradition and customs, and religious beliefs.
He cited the case of Islamic faith, which buries the departed ones within 24 hours after they have passed on according to the Quran and traditional funeral rites.
Under his proposed measure, Escudero said local government units and heads of various religions would have jurisdiction and supervision of these interfaith cemeteries.
A veteran senator for 12 years, Escudero is pushing for a stronger role and empowerment of local government units and various sectors of society needing a voice and representation in the Senate.
He also vowed to ensure the judicious and prudent utilization of the annual budget and contribute to the transition of the pandemic-weary economy to recovery, among others.