Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to the Muslim community as she officially announced the appointment of Moh’d Yamen Datu Zacaria as the new Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the city's Office of Muslim Affairs.

Mayor Honey Lacuna with (right) Moh’d Yamen Datu Zacaria, the officially-designated Officer-In-Charge of the city's Office of Muslim Affairs
The city government also warned the public against individuals formerly associated with the office who are now misrepresenting themselves to solicit money.
Lacuna-Pangan clarified that transactions made with the previous OIC after June 30, 2024 are not anymore connected to the Manila City government.
“In this regard, I would like to clarify that the previous Muslim Affairs OIC has not been connected with the City of Manila since June 30, 2024. Any transactions made with her after her contract was not renewed are not in any way connected with the city government. We also advise the public to beware of unauthorized Facebook pages claiming to represent the Office of Muslim Affairs," Lacuna-Pangan said.
She assured the Muslim community that under Zacaria’s leadership, the city government will remain open to suggestions on how to make Manila more inclusive for its Muslim residents and visitors.
The mayor also tasked Zacaria with coordinating with local Muslim leaders to ensure meaningful celebrations of Eid’l Fitr, Eid’l Adha, and other significant Islamic occasions in the city.
Furthermore, the mayor revealed plans to expand the presence of Shariah courts in the city through coordination with district congressmen.
“Moving forward, we will continue to consult with the local Muslim community on how to better serve their needs. Through our district congressmen, we are keen on eventually having more Shariah courts in Manila,” she said.
Additionally, Lacuna-Pangan also emphasized her administration’s commitment to increasing the availability of halal products, recognizing the growing demand for halal food across Metro Manila.
“This initiative will not only serve our Muslim residents and visitors but also create more job opportunities for Filipino Muslims,” the mayor said.