On May 15 2025, the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9) held a solemn send-off ceremony for its 17 Muslim personnel who will undertake a sacred journey of the Holy Hajj— one of the most significant religious duties in Islam. Held at Sadik Mosque, Camp Col Romeo A. Abendan in Mercedes, Zamboanga City, the event was led by Police Brigadier General Roel C. Rodolfo, Regional Director of PRO 9, who recognized the deep spiritual significance of the pilgrimage and offered his prayers for their safe travels and meaningful journey.
Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage performed in Makkah (Mecca), a sacred city in Saudi Arabia. It is an essential religious duty for Muslims. Every adult Muslim is expected to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially capable. The rituals are performed over five to six days, beginning on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah and ending on the 13th of this month, coinciding with the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, along with Shahadah (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakah (charity) and Sawm (fasting).
Moreover, Muslims consider Hajj as a profound opportunity for deep spiritual reflection, repentance, and renewal. Pilgrims seek forgiveness for their sins, strive to purify their hearts, and strengthen their relationship with Allah. Hajj is not merely a physical journey, it is a powerful spiritual experience that renews faith, strengthens devotion, and fosters unity among Muslims worldwide. It is a time for self-reflection, humility, and purification of the soul.
By supporting its personnel in fulfilling their religious obligations, PRO9 demonstrates its commitment to inclusivity, respect, and the overall well-being of its members. Recognizing that service to faith and service to the nation go hand in hand, the Philippine National Police (PNP) continues to foster an environment where spiritual and cultural diversity is embraced.
PBGen Rodolfo likewise expressed his deep admiration for the personnel embarking on the pilgrimage, highlighting that their commitment to faith mirrors their dedication to peacekeeping.
“It fills me with pride and deep emotion to witness this moment. Seventeen devoted servants of peace, now answering the call of faith. It is a reminder that service to country and service to God are not separate they are, in fact, deeply connected,“ he stated.
Upon completing the pilgrimage, said personnel are expected to return renewed, with strengthened faith and a deeper sense of purpose in their service to both God and the community.
The send-off ceremony was not just a farewell, it was a celebration of devotion, sacrifice, and the unity of faith. As they embark on this sacred journey, they carry with them the prayers and well-wishes of their colleagues and the entire PRO9 community.
