RP's 1st Moro newspaper to start on July 28
text HADER GLANG

A new monthly newspaper called The Moro Times will launch in Manila this month, according to Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy (PCID).

The paper will be a supplement to the Manila Times that will provide general information to the public and mainstream views and images of Muslims, particularly in Mindanao.

Samira Gutoc, a freelance journalist and founder of the Young Moro Professionals, is the paper’s point person and the future editor-in-chief. Muslim writers conversant on Shariah laws, human rights and Islamic tenets will back her.

PCID Lead Convenor Ms. Amina Rasul-Bernardo, former presidential adviser on youth affairs, said the paper’s first issue theme is bringing peace and prosperity to Muslim Mindanao.

“Launch date (of The Moro Times) is July 28 during our monthly forum, which will be co-organized by UP NCPAG (University of the Philippines College of Public Ad),” she said.

PCID members will be the priority for contributors. Manila Times writers will also be involved but the focus will be Muslim Mindanao and current issues confronting the Muslims of today.

"One of the major problems we have identified in our advocacy work has been our lack of a vehicle to access the majority. With Allah's blessings, we hope this venture will be successful as we dream of having our own paper,” Ms. Rasul said. (ZS)