Children in Marawi’s Torils to Benefit from Holistic Social Services
Marawi City / June 3, 2025 — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the City Government of Marawi have officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of Project Riayah, a culturally-sensitive social protection program for children in torils—Islamic residential learning institutions.
The MOA signing took place at the DSWD Central Office in Quezon City, with DSWD Secretary Rexlon T. Gatchalian and Marawi City Mayor Atty. Majul U. Gandamra leading the ceremonial signing. They were joined by DSWD Undersecretary Fatima Aliah Dimaporo, incoming Mayor Shariff Zain L. Gandamra, and officials from LGU-Marawi and the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).
Project Riayah is designed to provide a comprehensive package of services to children in torils, including food and nutrition, financial support, education access, health and hygiene services, psychosocial care, and youth development programs. The initiative is rooted in a rights-based approach that respects Islamic values and Maranao cultural identity.
Mayor Gandamra underscored the significance of the partnership in advancing child welfare in the city. “Today, we take a meaningful step forward—not only in providing aid and services, but in restoring hope and trust among our people. This partnership reflects our joint resolve to build a future where no child is forgotten, where no community is left behind,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to the DSWD for its unwavering support and emphasized the LGU’s commitment to the project’s success.
The collaboration is expected to institutionalize systems of care and support within Marawi’s torils and contribute to raising a new generation of well-rounded youth—Hafiz and Hafidha—who embody Islamic values and are equipped to become leaders in their communities.
Project Riayah marks a new chapter in Marawi’s continuing journey toward recovery, resilience, and inclusive development.