Senator Robin Padilla found himself at the center of controversy this week after viral videos appeared to show him flashing a “dirty finger” during the singing of the national anthem in the Senate. The actor-turned-lawmaker quickly denied the claim, stressing that the gesture he made was not one of disrespect but a sacred act of faith in Islam—known as the kalimah.
The meaning of kalimah in Islam
In Islam, kalimah (Arabic: كلمة) literally means “word,” but in practice it refers to the Kalimah Tayyibah or the Shahada—the declaration of faith that proclaims, “La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah” (There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah). This statement forms the foundation of Islam and is the first of the Five Pillars. By sincerely professing it, a person formally embraces Islam and affirms their belief in the oneness of Allah and the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Muslims often symbolize this powerful declaration by raising their index finger, a gesture called the tawhid finger. It is a reminder of their unwavering belief in the oneness of God. For believers, the kalimah is more than a phrase—it is a guiding principle, a lifelong commitment, and a spiritual anchor that shapes daily actions and values.
Padilla’s explanation of his gesture
Padilla clarified that what many thought was his middle finger was actually his index finger extended over his chest while singing Lupang Hinirang. He explained that the gesture is part of his religious practice as a Muslim.
“Ito po ang mga larawan na tunay sa araw na ‘yan ng ika-8 Setyembre 2025. Ang hintuturo, index finger/fore finger ay ang siyang nagagamit ng mga Muslim para isagawa ang kalimah LA İLAHA ILALAH,” he wrote in a Facebook post.
He added that extending the index finger during prayer or moments of solemnity is his way of affirming faith in Allah. “Ito po ang pundasyon ng aming pananampalataya. Dito nakasalalay ang aming pag-ibig, paggalang, pagsunod sa Panginoong Allah,” he emphasized in a livestream.
Faith and patriotism side by side
Padilla’s wife, television host Mariel Rodriguez, defended him, noting that her husband is “a devout Muslim and a proud Filipino.” She explained that his expression of faith during the anthem does not contradict his patriotism. In fact, she pointed out that Padilla always carries a Philippine flag with him when traveling, a personal ritual that reflects his deep love for the country.
She also cited Republic Act 8491, which governs the use of national symbols. While it requires citizens to place their right hand over their chest during the anthem, it does not mandate that the palm must be flat. “No law was broken,” she said, countering claims that Padilla had disrespected the national flag.
“Hindi po namin puwedeng gawing kabastusan po ito,” Padilla said. “Magpapakamatay na lang po ako kung gagawin ko ‘yun.” He ended his message by entrusting the matter to Allah, saying, “Ipagpapasa-Diyos ko ito.”
