WAMY - Philippines

By Norhassan S. Curo

Iligan City-The First World Assembly of Muslim Youth-Philippines Male Scholars’ Excursion was successfully held last May 28, 2010 at the Maze Park Resort, Iligan City. 27 Male WAMY Scholars from Marawi and Iligan City chapters together with the WAMY Phil Director and administrative officials Aleem Monib Sarangani and Aleem Moctar Bato attended the event as part of the WAMY regular activities.

With its theme “A Travel to Reveal”, the scholars started hitting the trail at 8:30 am departing from Plaza Cabili, Banggolo, Marawi City where they assembled.

At exactly 9:30 am, the group arrived at the venue of the excursion, Maze Park Iligan City.

Immediately after arrival, briefing and orientation on the activities for the day were given by Muhammad Bani. Followed suit was an inspirational talk delivered by Aleem Moctar Bato. The talk was given to enlighten the scholars on wisdom and purpose of the event, emphasizing that the pursuit of travelling is recommended in Islam so that the Muslim may observe God’s creations on earth. Traveling he said will nourish and make the Muslim’s faith grow.  While the Aleem shares his words, the scholars were more delighted with refreshments served.

At 10:30 am, the group of scholars was divided in two for a Quiz Bee. Muhammad Bani stood as the Quiz Master in the field of Islam while scholars Rajiv Sarangani and Norhassan Curo made their turns in the fields of English, Science and General Knowledge.

After the mind-boggling questions during the round, the scholars enjoyed the treat when lunch was served at 12 pm.

Reminding themselves again of the real purpose of their activity—that it is no more than a form of worship—the scholars offered their Salah Dohr and Asr in congregation at 1 pm.

The scholars were not left off with mental and spiritual exercises only during the event. Training the scholars to become true Muslims, they were also made to enjoy some physical activities. Games like swimming contests and other ball games were conducted.

At 2:30 pm, after the tiring but fun activities, the scholars’ efforts were finally rewarded. Releasing of the monthly allowance to the scholars and prizes to the winners during the quiz bee and other contests were made.

At 3:00 pm, a forum was opened between and among the scholars and the WAMY officials present. During this part, activities for coming first semester were suggested. Among the suggestions approved were regular monthly I’tikaf for the Month of June, Joint Islamic Seminar and Interfaith Dialogue in July, Ramadan Iftar in August and Sports Fest for the Scholars in the month of September.

Finally, a closing remark from the officials was delivered to end the program at 4:00 pm.

The First excursion conducted by the WAMY Phil scholars has finally come to an end. But two things are sure. One, this will not be the last and second, the WAMY scholars’ journey for school year 2010 has just begun.