Cabanlas supports probe on complaints of wearing hijabs inside school premises

COUNCILOR Edgar S. Cabanlas, on Monday, said the dress code of the school is that Muslim ladies are not allowed to wear uniforms with open sleeves. Wearing of hijab is allowed.

This was manifested by the councilor, during the regular session presided over by City Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, as he supports the call of Councilor Joyleen Mercedes L. Balaba for an investigation of the complaints of students about a particular school that prohibits them from wearing hijabs during classes.

Councilor Balaba reported that a university discourages Muslim nursing students from wearing the hijab or headscarf in their classes, and they were not allowed to participate in any class demonstration if they were to wear their hijabs.

However, Councilor Cabanlas clarified that the said university approved and recommended the wearing of hijab as part of its dress code.

“I cannot imagine the controversy. ... That is why it is good that this would be investigated”, Cabanlas urged.

He even opined that it might be for the purpose of recognizing the identity of a student during their classes.

“If it is covering the face when entering the classroom… and to check the attendance, I think it’s not a question of discrimination of religion, it would be the identity because how could they fully recognize?” he said.