President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called on Filipino Muslims to live out the values of kindness, understanding, and empowerment as they mark the holy month of Ramadan.
In a message shared Tuesday night on the Facebook page of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), Marcos expressed hope that the sacred observance would renew the faithful’s commitment to practicing and embodying their beliefs in everyday life.
“May your sacrifices, reflections, and encounters strengthen you to embody His boundless love for humanity, especially for the least among our brethren. Let every fast be a moment of self-emptying that fills your personal and spiritual hunger,” the President said.
He also urged the Muslim community to make the season a time for reflection and solidarity.
“During these blessed hours, may you find opportunity to reinvigorate your solidarity and rekindle your shared concern for one another. Continue becoming a vessel of kindness, understanding and empowerment throughout this sacred month and beyond,” Marcos added.
The Chief Executive described Ramadan — observed through fasting from dawn to dusk, prayer, and reflection — as a meaningful opportunity to nurture discipline, humility, and compassion, while drawing closer to the values of mercy, justice, and service.
“Upon this dedication, we stand on sacred ground- a place of renewal- where spiritual growth bears fruit not only in our own lives, but also in the lives of those entrusted to our care,” he said.
Earlier, the NCMF announced that Ramadan would officially begin on Thursday, February 19, after the crescent moon was not sighted on Tuesday evening.
For his part, NCMF Secretary Sabuddin Abdurahim described Ramadan as “a time of faith, patience, compassion and sincere devotion to Allah.”
“Ramadan reminds us to strengthen our relationship with Allah, uplift the less fortunate, and foster unity, understanding, and peace within our communities and our nation. May this season inspire reflection, renewal, and meaningful service to others,” he said.
Abdurahim added: “May Allah accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds, and grant us guidance, mercy, and peace throughout this blessed month.”