Senator Mark Villar lauds approval of Multi-Faith Prayer Rooms Act

Senator Mark Villar lauded the the Senate’s approval of the  landmark measure mandating the establishment of dedicated multi-faith prayer and quiet rooms in public offices and certain establishments.

The Senate, on February 18, 2026, in a vote of 18-0-0, approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 1629, also known as the Multi-Faith Prayer and Quiet Rooms Act.

In a news release, Villar said the "reflects a significant step forward in promoting religious inclusivity, respect,

and harmony in Philippine society."

He noted that the Muslim community worldwide observes the holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

Villar said the "timely legislative milestone underscores the Senate’s commitment to supporting the spiritual needs of all Filipinos, particularly during a period of heightened religious observance for our Muslim brothers and sisters."

Ramadan was earlier expected to begin in the Philippines on February 18. However, according to a report of Gulf News, the crescent moon was not sighted on that day, prompting the Philippine National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) to announce that Ramadan in the country will begin on February 19.

EVOLUTION OF SENATE BILL 1629

When Villar first proposed the bill, he initially focused on dedicated prayer spaces for Muslims in public workplaces and facilities.

Hearings on the proposed measure were conducted under the Committee on Muslim Affairs, chaired by Senator Robinhood Padilla, and the bill evolved into a more inclusive framework: establishing multi-faith prayer and quiet rooms accessible to all.

According to Villar, "A country with profound religious diversity has long needed such dedicated spaces in government offices, airports, hospitals, ports, and other key public-facing venues."

"These rooms will serve as neutral, well-maintained areas for prayer,meditation, quiet reflection, and spiritual observance free from symbols favoring any single religion while providing necessary facilities like ablution areas where appropriate," he explained.

After the Senate's approval on third reading, Bill No. 1629 will be heading to the bicameral conference process, if needed.

The bill will need the concurrence of the House of Representatives before it is transmitted to the President for signature.

Meanwhile, Villar expressed gratitude to Senator Robinhood Padilla for sponsoring the measure through the committee and plenary.

Villar also cited his co-authors and supporters including Senators Joel Villanueva, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Loren Legarda,

Christopher Lawrence Go, and others who contributed to the refinement of the bill.

-Paraluman News