Senator Robin Padilla
SENATOR Robin Padilla said actor-director Coco Martin went to his office at the Senate and explain his side over the controversial scene that raised concerns from fellow Filipinos, particularly the Muslim community.
In his statement Padilla said one scene involved ‘Tanggol,’ the character played by Coco Martin, who was chased by police after stealing a necklace in Quiapo. In the scene, the character fled towards a residential building occupied by a group of Muslims led by Manong Rez Cortez.
“I understand that our Muslim brethren were hurt by the scene that portrayed Muslims consenting to a theft – in addition to the showing of religious images such as the Golden Mosque, adhan (call to prayer), and garments used by Muslims in prayer,” said Padilla.
“I wish to make clear that Islam strictly forbids any form of theft, or the consent thereof. Such acts are haram, or a major offense,” the senator added.
“That said, I also wish to let you know that Coco Martin personally went to my office at the Senate to explain his side over the controversial scene. I listened to his explanation and felt his sincerity – as an actor-director to a fellow actor-director – in apologizing to all who may have been hurt.
My dear brethren, I assure you that Mr. Coco Martin’e intentions are pure, and I am sure he had no ill intentions toward anyone. He admitted that he has much to learn about Islam. Thus, instead of criticizing his shortcomings, I appeal to you to understand him,” Paddila said.
For their part, the people behind “Batang Quiapo” have promised to be more sensitive in portraying various sectors of society, especially images of culture, tradition and religion.
Truly, the Muslim community in Manila, particularly Quiapo, is rich in tradition.
“My prayer is for all our sectors and industries to do their part to end this ugly stereotype of Muslims and the Islam faith. In sha Allah. To my Muslim brethren, In sha Allah, may this episode provide us with a golden opportunity to improve awareness of the Islam faith that is rooted in peace, the goodness of God, and goodness to our fellows. My brethren, sometimes unwanted things happen. It may look bad at first, but it can be considered an opportunity for us to show people the right teachings of Islam. Let us not find fault with our brethren who are not Muslim and who are not aware of our faith. Instead, let us embrace them and talk to them, so they will know what Islam is. Shukran,” the senator concluded.
