Manila 2nd district Rep. Rolando Valeriano reminded Baguio City Mayor Benjamin "Benjie" Magalong on Monday, Aug. 25 that it's the local Muslim community that fuels Baguio's economy.

As such, they should be honored for their contributions, not insulted, Valeriano said.

“Muslims are builders of Baguio’s economy. They run businesses, sustain livelihoods, and power the city’s night market, one of the country’s most iconic tourist attractions,” said Valeriano, chairman of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety.

Earlier, Magalong described as "moro-moro" or a farce the House tri-committee (tri-comm) investigation on alleged anomalous flood control projects. This is because the mayor is convinced that some solons are in cahoots with contractors and are receiving kickbacks from the projects.

Muslim House leaders such as Deputy Speaker Lanao del Sur 2nd district Rep. Yasser Alonto Balindong and Deputy Majority Leader Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong took offense to Magalong’s use of the word "moro" in this context, and challenged him to produce solid evidence instead.

Valeriano noted that the hard work of Muslims generates jobs, revenues for the city, and keeps Baguio’s tourism alive.

“To demean them with a careless phrase is unacceptable and unjust,” he noted.

Valeriano pointed out that hundreds of Muslim vendors and entrepreneurs are at the heart of Harrison Road’s Night Market, where commerce thrives nightly and thousands of visitors flock.

“The night market is not just a tourist stop. It is an economic engine, and at its center are Muslims whose enterprise and resilience drive Baguio’s growth,” he said.

The Manila congressman echoed the two Muslim solons' call for Magalong to attend the tri-comm and put his money where his mouth is.

“If there are names, state them under oath. If there is proof, submit it to the hearings. Otherwise, stop maligning Congress and stop insulting the Moro people,” he said.