Sharjah Deputy Ruler inaugurates orphanage and lays foundation for housing village in Philippines

Speaking during the events in Mindanao, Sheikh Dr Sultan said humanitarian work reflects the UAE’s values and its mission to convey a message of goodness, compassion and humanity that unites people of all races and ethnicities.

Al Reeh Al Mursala Village

Sheikh Dr Sultan laid the foundation stone for Al Reeh Al Mursala Village in the Dinas area of Mindanao. The village is backed by the Al Reeh Al Mursala programme of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, in partnership with Sharjah Charity International.

He thanked all donors and institutions whose contributions help meet the essential needs of underprivileged villages and their families, improving living conditions and quality of life. The Deputy Ruler highlighted the importance of integrated charitable projects that provide essential necessities, contribute to family stability and enable communities to become educated and productive.

Mohammed Hassan Khalaf, Director-General of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, said the projects reflect a humanitarian partnership between the Authority and Sharjah Charity International, sustained by donations through the Al Reeh Al Mursala programme broadcast on Sharjah TV and Sharjah Radio. The programme has helped establish villages, healthcare centres and other humanitarian projects aimed at improving living conditions and creating sustainable income sources, he noted. Khalaf commended the support of donors and philanthropists, reflecting humanitarian values and solidarity with those in need.

The village will comprise 60 homes, each with two bedrooms and a living room. Plans also include an artesian well for a sustainable clean water supply and a vocational centre to enhance residents’ skills, empowering them to become productive individuals. The village represents a model for integrated charitable projects offering suitable housing, reliable water, and opportunities for learning and professional achievement.

Dar Al Rahma Orphanage inaugurated

Following the foundation-laying ceremony, Sheikh Dr Sultan visited Dar Al Rahma Orphanage, where he cut the ceremonial ribbon to mark its official opening. He toured the facility, starting with the mosque, and then the accommodation building capable of housing 50 orphans. The building is equipped with high-quality facilities to meet daily needs, allowing orphans to live in comfort and security, practise life skills and interact socially.

Sheikh Dr Sultan also visited four classrooms, including a computer laboratory for digital skills development, and multipurpose classrooms with modern learning facilities. He received briefings on the educational process and teaching methods. At the sewing institute, mothers of orphans can develop sewing skills and produce garments and textiles to support household income. The institute also assists in bringing products to market.

The orphanage features an electric-powered well for clean water, commercial shops to support local products and generate sustainable income, a restaurant and administrative offices. At the end of the visit, Sheikh Dr Sultan posed for group photographs with the orphans and their mothers, who expressed happiness and deep gratitude for the facility’s opening.

Sheikh Dr Sultan was accompanied by Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sharjah Charity International; Mohammed Hassan Khalaf; Tariq Saeed Allay, Director-General of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau; Hassan Yaqoub Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the Sharjah Media Council; and several officials.