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IMAN Phil: Islamic Leadership in Service of Healing & Community

By Maymona Choudry

  

On May 15, 2026, the Islamic Medical Association of the Philippines (IMAN Phil) convened Muslim physicians, allied health professionals, academics, and students at the EDSA Shangri-La Mall Cinema for its Leadership Forum and Induction Ceremony. Anchored on the theme, “Islamic Leadership Across the Globe: Transforming Communities Through Best Practices and Service,” the gathering highlighted the vital role of faith-driven leadership in advancing healthcare, humanitarian service, and community development.

The event brought together healthcare professionals united by a shared mission: to strengthen ethical, compassionate, and community-centered leadership grounded in Islamic values. Through keynote discussions, professional reflections, and ceremonial commitments, participants were reminded that the pursuit of healing and public service is not only a professional responsibility, but also an act of worship and stewardship.

A Forum Grounded in Purpose

Speakers and panelists underscored that effective leadership in healthcare extends beyond clinical expertise. It requires integrity, accountability, humility, and an unwavering commitment to serving vulnerable and underserved populations. Discussions explored the expanding role of Muslim healthcare professionals in public health, humanitarian response, health education, mentorship, and community empowerment.

The forum also emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration among healthcare institutions, academic organizations, non-governmental organizations, and local communities to create sustainable and meaningful health initiatives across the country.

Induction of New Leaders & Renewed Commitments

A key highlight of the program was the formal induction of IMAN Phil officers and members of the Board of Directors. The ceremony symbolized both continuity and renewal of the organization’s commitment to professional excellence, ethical leadership, and service-oriented healthcare.

The newly inducted leadership team was entrusted with advancing IMAN Phil’s initiatives in medical missions, health promotion, humanitarian response, interlinkage collaboration and capacity-building efforts throughout the Philippines.


Key Reflections & Insights

Leadership as Amanah (Sacred Trust)

        Speakers emphasized that leadership in Islam is an amanah — a sacred responsibility that demands sincerity, compassion, humility, and accountability. Participants were encouraged to translate faith-based values into tangible and measurable impact within their communities.

Healthcare as Service to Humanity

    The forum reinforced the idea that medicine is not merely a profession, but a moral and social obligation. Attendees were encouraged to integrate humanitarian service and advocacy for underserved populations into their professional practice.

Strengthening Collaboration for Greater Impact

    The gathering highlighted the importance of building partnerships among healthcare professionals, institutions, and community organizations to expand outreach programs, disaster response initiatives, and public health education efforts.

Voices of Experience & Vision

Among the distinguished speakers were Dr. Abdel Jeffri Abdulla (IMAN Phil Founder), Dr. Luz Acosta-Barrientos (PMA, President-Elect), Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr. (MOH BARMM Minister), and Dir. Samira Gutoc (Office of Sen. Robinhood Padilla), each contributing valuable perspectives on leadership and service. Their insights provided practical guidance on mentorship, professional development, and community engagement, while inspiring participants to become agents of positive transformation within their respective fields.

A recurring message throughout the forum was clear: ethical leadership, professional competence, unity, and compassion are essential in building healthier and more resilient communities.

A Continuing Call to Service

The program concluded with a renewed call for IMAN Phil members to uphold a dual commitment to medical excellence and compassionate service rooted in Islamic ethics. As the organization continues to expand its initiatives nationwide, IMAN Phil reaffirmed its vision of becoming not only a professional association, but also a catalyst for community-centered healthcare, humanitarian action, and transformative leadership in the Philippines.


       Follow IMAN Philippines on Facebook for the latest updates, announcements, and upcoming events.


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