The holy Islamic month of Ramadan should “strengthen kinship and open hearts to forgive grievances” among Filipinos, President Marcos said in a statement yesterday.
He expressed his “solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters in the country and all over the world on the occasion of Ramadan.”
“Today marks the beginning of the sacred journey of Ramadan, a time of reflection and spiritual growth where the virtues of compassion, empathy, and generosity are upheld and practiced fervently,” he said.
“It is with no doubt that our Muslim brothers and sisters have made invaluable contributions to our nation’s history and heritage, shaping our beloved motherland into the diverse and united country that it is today,” the President added.
Mr. Marcos said the holy month should lead Filipinos to “embrace a spirit of harmony that will redound to our collective progress.”
“Truly, this demonstration of faith speaks volumes of their deepintrospection and shared devotion, allowing them to create a stronger bond in their communities through their beliefs…Together, let us build a future where love and understanding prevail and where the light of hope shines brightly for all,” he said.
Muslims believe that Ramadan is the month when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
Ramadan’s dawn-to-dusk fast lasts anywhere from 12 to 17 hours – entailing abstinence from eating, drinking, and smoking, among others.