Manila, Feb. 2 -- Speaker Faustino Dy III on Monday underscored the importance of religious freedom, women's empowerment, and inclusive economic growth as pillars of a stronger and more united Philippines.

Dy made this remark as the House of Representatives commemorated World Hijab Day and opened the Halal Festival at the Batasang Pambansa.

In a speech, Dy said World Hijab Day reminds Filipinos that identity and faith deserve respect in a country shaped by diversity and mutual understanding.

"World Hijab Day is a reminder that identity deserves respect, and that faith-when freely chosen and freely expressed - is a source of strength, dignity, and purpose. For many Muslim women, the hijab is a symbol of conviction; a personal choice tha...