Davao City approves one-time burial fees for Muslim cemetery

The Davao City Council has approved an ordinance establishing a one-time fee system for grave lots at the Muslim Cemetery within Tagakpan Public Cemetery. This new measure replaces a six-year lease system that required annual renewals and allowed for the removal of remains upon lease expiration.

The previous system was identified as being inconsistent with Islamic burial practices, which require permanent burial and prohibit the disturbance or transfer of human remains. Under the new ordinance, families will pay a single fee to receive a contract granting the right to use the lot for permanent interment, though the city government retains ownership of the land.

Fees are set at P7,000 for small grave lots (4 to 5 feet by 2 to 2.5 feet) and P15,000 for large grave lots (7 feet by 3 feet). The ordinance covers a total of 334 lots, consisting of 70 small and 264 large plots. The measure also prohibits the collection of fees related to the removal of remains and exempts indigent burials upon certification by the City Social Welfare and Development Office.

Councilor Ragde Niño P. Ibuyan, the author of the ordinance, stated the fees are intended to help the city recover its investment in the cemetery’s infrastructure, including the prayer building, pathways, and maintenance costs. The ordinance was developed following consultations with Muslim community leaders and organizations.