THE City Government of Davao allocated P3,870,000 budget for 18 Muslim-Dabawenyos who are set to join the pilgrimage to Mecca this year.

The 18 pilgrims, who will receive P215,000 each, are Anwar Oma, Kadil Impi Adilin, Aslean Osani, Talibean Lojo, Masil Ahalul, Mustapha Aynin, Esmael Adam, PO3 Taha Nor Akmad, Radjail Adin, Alice Abubacar, Alimoddin Abdul Mannan, Macabayao Apadan, Oden Nonongan, Jainar Tangayon, Imran Maongco, Sali Matanul Sahibuddin, Alexander Castillo and a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Duterte said Hajj fees cost around P183,812 each. The city is also giving them an allowance worth P31,188.

"Taon-taon ang pag sponsor ng city for Hajj para sa mga kapatid natin na Muslim. I remember inumpishan ko to in 1990s. Ang standard ko naman ay yung isang mabait na Muslim, sumusunod sa teachings ng Islam at wala talagang pera. Kasi yung mga mayaman, hindi na kailangan tulungan kasi maraming pera yan," he said during their meeting at the Royal Mandaya Hotel on Friday.

He said Davao City religious leaders or Muslim political leaders will join this year's pilgrimage.

"Ang pagpunta niyo sa Mecca ay hindi isang pasyal lang. it’s a pilgrimage of sacrifice. Panahon na, gusto ni Allah na pumuntana kayo doon," he said.

In a talk during the ceremonial turn-over of the budget allocation, PO3 Akmad told Duterte that going on a pilgrimage to Mecca has been his lifelong dream but the hefty price of the journey was always a barrier.

He said he is thankful he was chosen as one of the pilgrims this year. (ANC)