Santanina Tilla Rasul, the first Muslim Filipina senator, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, November 28, 2024, at the age of 94. Her daughter, Amina Rasul, confirmed the news through a heartfelt Facebook post on Friday, sharing, “Mama left us peacefully last night and has returned to Allah. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.”
Amina fondly described her mother as “a gentle soul, proud of her heritage and her peoples and unafraid to fight for her convictions and advocacies.”
Santanina Rasul’s legacy as a public servant and trailblazer remains unmatched. She served two terms in the Senate, from 1987 to 1992 and from 1992 to 1995. During her tenure, Rasul championed causes close to her heart, particularly those that uplifted marginalized communities and promoted peace and development in Mindanao. She was instrumental in advocating for the welfare of Muslim Filipinos and worked tirelessly to bridge gaps between communities through legislation and grassroots initiatives.
Her significant contributions extended beyond her political career. Rasul was a staunch advocate for education, women’s rights, and interfaith dialogue. Her efforts paved the way for more inclusive policymaking and a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures that enrich the Philippines.
As news of her passing spread, tributes poured in from various sectors, honoring her pioneering spirit and dedication to public service. Many remembered her as a beacon of strength and a symbol of hope for underrepresented communities in the Philippines.
Amina also shared the family’s plans for her mother’s final resting place. “We will bring her to the Blue Mosque in Taguig tomorrow at noon, awaiting my brothers coming home from the US. We will fly her to Jolo, where she will lie beside Papa,” she wrote.
The late senator’s burial follows Islamic funeral traditions, reflecting her deep faith and connection to her roots in Jolo, Sulu.
Rasul’s life and work continue to inspire Filipinos, particularly women and minorities, to take active roles in shaping a just and inclusive society. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and the barriers she broke throughout her storied career.