JEDDAH, 27 December 2004 — The first batch of Filipino pilgrims is in town. One of the most prominent early comers is Sultan Duma Liwa of Marantao municipality in Lanao del Sur, who, at 64 years old is also one of the most senior.
Liwa is among more than 800 who had flown in early for the annual pilgrimage, said Philippine Consulate officials who. He arrived onboard a Saudia Airlines flights at the Madinah Airport on Thursday.
Consul General Dino Lomondot, who led the welcoming party for Sultan Liwa, the others were flown into Jeddah by Emirates and Singapore Airlines also on Thursday.
More than 3,000 Filipinos are to visit Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage.
Muslims around the world are encouraged to perform Hajj, at least, once in their lifetime. Lomondot and his consulate team assisted the pilgrims in checking out of the airport, as well as with their accommodation and transportation needs.
“We will do our best to provide for the needs of these pilgrims who are starting to arrive in Saudi Arabia,” Lomondot told Arab News.
More Filipino pilgrims are expected to arrive in the coming days until Jan. 13.