AT A GLANCE
Muslims worldwide observe Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
Fasting is considered an act of worship and holds great spiritual significance. It likewise reminds them that God is the source of all sustenance.
Featured photo: Muslims say their earlier prayer inside the Manila Golden Mosque on the first day of Ramadan, March 23, 2023. (Juan Carlo de Vela)
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has reminded Filipinos about the importance of respect, understanding, and love in a culturally diverse country such as the Philippines, as Filipino Muslims mark the start of the Holy Month of Ramadan on Thursday, March 23.
"In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, I join the Filipino Muslim community here and around the world as they welcome and observe the Holy Month of Ramadan," his message read.
Muslims worldwide observe Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
Fasting is considered an act of worship and holds great spiritual significance. It likewise reminds them that God is the source of all sustenance.
According to the President, this season of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving is an opportune time to embody the values of discipline, reverence, and humility.
"The spiritual belief that the gate of Heaven is open during this sacred month calls upon our brothers and sisters to purify their souls against the perils of worldly pleasures as well as seek for forgiveness and peace," he said.
In between thanking the Almighty for answered prayers and asking for sustained graces, President Marcos urged Filipinos to also pray for those in deep distress caused by hunger, natural calamities, and unfavorable circumstances.
"The rituals and services during Ramadan remind us of our shared moral obligation-- regardless of faith-- to compassionately take care of each other, uphold our human dignity, and stand in solidarity," he said.
"As a nation enriched with cultural diversity, let us allow our hearts to embrace the profound truth that respect conquers divisions, understanding obliterates prejudice, and love prevails over all," he added.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) also wished for a peaceful observation of Ramadan.
"Hangad namin ang isang mapayapa at makabuluhang buwan para sa ating mga kapatid na Muslim bilang pagkakataon na mag-ayuno at magnilay-nilay bilang bahagi rin ng pagkakaisa natin para sa ating komunidad at bansa (We wish for a peaceful and meaningful month for Muslim brothers and sisters as this serves as an opportunity to fast and reflect as part of our unity for our community and country)," it said.
