RIYADH: The United Bangsaranao Council (UBC), an umbrella organization of 32 civic and sports associations of Filipino Muslims, is all set to provide medicine and food to Haj pilgrims from the Philippines.

Sheikh Alinasser Radiamoda, the newly elected UBC chairman, said his group is coordinating directly with the Philippines Consulate in Jeddah and has four buses on the ready for their work.

The Jeddah-based UBC, said Radiamoda, is a broad-based coalition of Maranao organizations, also certified by the Philippines Consulate.

The group recently reshaped its organizational structure by signing a Declaration of Unity with the Council of Muslim Leaders (CML). This project was initiated by Sheikh Alinasser Radiamoda and his officers.

Radiamoda said the signed declaration included a commitment that the UBC will be governed by the CML, which shall be the highest policymaking body with the power to interpret and safeguard the UBC’s constitution and bylaws, pass resolutions, and issue rules and guidelines. Prominent UBC members Bobby Dalos and Yusoph Admain said the declaration is a step forward in restoring solidarity among members.

Meanwhile, the Riyadh-based Integrated Mindanao Economic Forum (IMEF) is currently collecting cash donations for Mindanao people affected by the typhoon in the Philippines.

Dante Pangcoga, the group’s board chairman, told Arab News that he received calls and e-mails from friends and relatives living in Manila who have also been heavily affected by the typhoon.

The group can be contacted on 0500234955 and 0508954392.