The First Mosque in Iffugao Province, Philippines, After 1446 Years!

“The mosques of Allah shall be maintained only by those who believe in Allah and the Last Day, perform prayer, give zakat, and fear none except Allah. It is they who are on true guidance.” This verse was embodied in the opening of the Tinok Ravza Madrasa and Mosque, an event marking a historic day. As the first mosque in the region after 1,446 years, the Tinok Ravza Madrasa and Mosque was inaugurated in a grand ceremony attended by Muslims and locals alike.

Emotional Moments at the Opening of Ravza Madrasa and Mosque

In the Tinoc region of Ifugao province in the Philippines, a mosque was built for the first time after 1,446 years. Named Tinok Ravzatu’l Jannah Madrasa and Mosque, this four-story building was made possible through the efforts of converted Muslim brothers Muhammad Isa (Angelo Uybaan) and Aisha Nuriye (Nikita Uybaan) and support from Turkey. It will serve not only as a mosque but also as a madrasa and a Turkish-Islamic Cultural Center.

From 9:00 a.m., hundreds of people from various religious backgrounds—Muslim, Christian, and indigenous faiths—gathered for the opening ceremony, which had a festive atmosphere. The program began with Quranic recitation by Hafiz Ali Can, also a convert, followed by the translation of the verses. Witnessing people hearing the Quran for the first time, some even shedding tears, was a powerful sight. We continuously prayed for guidance for all, reflecting on the idea that if we demonstrated Islamic morals and faith through our actions, followers of other religions would naturally be drawn to Islam, and perhaps even nations would embrace it.

Throughout the event, many male and female converts mingled with the crowd, answering their curious questions about Islam. Guests were offered lunch, and the mosque was filled with visitors. The program included a Quran recitation and then continued with introductory Islamic teachings, Islamic history, and stories from the life of Prophet Muhammad. English copies of the book “Prophet Muhammad Mustafa” by Osman Nuri Topbaş, along with Islamic brochures published by the Turkish Presidency of Religious Affairs, and English translations of “Small Words” and “The Fruits of Faith” were distributed as gifts. The event was attended by the Tinok Deputy Mayor, the Director of Ifugao State University Tinoc Vocational School, representatives of various religious groups, and many local people.

Features and Facilities of the Mosque

• Modern Library
• Guesthouse Section
• Special Areas for Cultural Activities
•  Clean and Well-Maintained Prayer Area

First Prayer and Quran Recitation

Following the Quran recitation at the opening ceremony, the first congregational noon prayer was performed. Built with the efforts of about 100 people, the mosque fulfilled a long-standing desire of the country’s Muslim community.

To Serve as a Turkish-Islamic Center

The Tinok Ravza Madrasa and Mosque will serve not only as a place of worship but also as an Islamic madrasa, a center of guidance, and a symbol of the heritage of Anatolian Muslims. Various sections within the structure will be used for educational and cultural activities.

We pray that this center, where the call to prayer will be heard five times a day, will help convey the true understanding of Islam. May Allah be pleased with everyone who contributed to this sacred service.