Ramadan officially starts today (Sunday) as declared by the Bangsamoro Grand Mufti after ground lunar observers from different parts of the country failed to establish that the crescent moon appeared and rose on Friday.
Bangsamoro Grand Mufti Abdulraof Guialani said the daily dawn to dusk fasting will end in 29 or 30 days, or in about April 1.
Vice President Sara Duterte called on Muslim Filipinos to uphold the values of peace and forgiveness as the country marks the beginning of Ramadan.
“May the spirit of Ramadan guide your prayers and reflections while we look forward with profound hope and optimism to an inclusive and dignified future for every Filipino,” she said.
Speaker Martin Romualdez emphasized faith, unity, and compassion as guiding principles for all Filipinos.
“As we welcome the holy month of Ramadan, I extend my warmest greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters across the country. Ramadan is a time of deep reflection, prayer, and self-discipline—a sacred period that strengthens faith and brings communities together. It reminds us of the values that unite us as a people: faith, perseverance, compassion, and unity,” he said.
“In the spirit of unity and peace, may we use Ramadan as an opportunity to bond as a people. May the appreciation of peace, justice, and faith serve as a guide for all of us, and let us continue to work together towards a more prosperous and just society for all,” Romualdez added.
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity also called on Filipino Muslims to unite in prayer for “just and lasting peace” as the Holy Month of Ramadan begins.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. said: “As this blessed month begins, our Muslim brothers and sisters around the world observe this solemn period to strengthen their connections with Allah and renew their commitment to sacrifice, commitment, and unity.”