The Role of Waqf Properties in the Development of the Islāmic Institutions in the Philippines: Issues and Challenges

Abstract

The Waqf system continues to be the most successful way by which
endowments or revenues accruing from assets can be donated by benefactors,
expressly for the welfare of the Muslim Ummah. It is a highly revered act when
waqf funds are used in building mosques, madrasahs, orphanages, colleges and
universities as well as for providing free medical services for needy Muslims.
Waqf can also offer Islāmic financial facilities to the deserving. Waqf is
considered as an indispensable institution for the socio-economic upliftment of
the Bangsamoro people. This research discusses the role of waqf properties in
the development of the Islāmic institutions in the Philippines. It also analyses
and evaluates the issues and challenges faced by the Muslim minorities in
the management and development of waqf properties in a country dominated
by Catholic Christians. For sustainable development of waqf properties, this
research recommends the establishment of a credible model in management
and financing of waqf, which will, in turn, provide a strong support for the
establishment of health clinics, Islāmic religious centers and educational
institutions. This paper concludes that unity among the scholars (ʿUlamā’)
and Muslim non-governmental organizations through implementation of a
uniform waqf management system can strengthen the role of waqf properties
in developing Islāmic institutions in the Philippines.