SENATE APPROVES MULTI-FAITH PRAYER AND QUIET ROOMS ACT ON FINAL READING

The Senate on Feb. 18, 2026, approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 1629, which mandates the establishment of multi-faith prayer and quiet rooms in public offices and selected public-facing venues.

Sen. Mark Villar called the measure a “landmark” for promoting religious inclusivity and ensuring Filipinos of different faiths have access to spaces for prayer and quiet reflection.

The bill, originally aimed at accommodating Muslims, was expanded into a multi-faith framework to serve people of all beliefs and includes neutral, well-maintained rooms free of symbols favoring any religion.

Facilities may be set up in government offices, airports, hospitals, ports, and other high-traffic public areas, and may include ablution areas where appropriate.

SB 1629 will now proceed to the next legislative stages, including potential bicameral deliberations and concurrence with the House, before being sent to the President for signing.

Source: PhilNews24 | February 21, 2026