Northern Mindanao Muslims Dedicate Ramadan Prayers to Global Peace

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines — Muslims in Northern Mindanao and adjacent provinces are set to commence a 30-day fast for Ramadan, joining the global Islamic community in a period of reflection, prayer, and fasting. During this holy month, special prayers will be dedicated to those suffering from conflicts around the world, particularly innocent civilians in Palestine and other Muslim communities embroiled in disputes.

According to Philippines News Agency, a resident of Cagayan de Oro currently serving as a Sharia scholar at Qassim University in Saudi Arabia, the prayers during Ramadan will seek relief for those facing adversities in conflict zones. “We will pray for them that they will be free from these adversities,” Egol stated in a recent interview.

Ramadan, one of the five pillars of Islam, mandates able Muslims to fast from dawn until sunset for 30 days each year. The commencement of Ramadan in the Philippines will be on Tuesday, following the moon sighting and the official declaration by the Grand Mufti of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Adiong reflected on the significance of Ramadan, emphasizing it as a time for Muslims to ponder their faith, practice patience, and spread compassion. “We invite our fellow Muslims to deepen our connection with Allah Almighty through prayer and self-reflection,” Adiong remarked, encouraging the Muslim community to engage in acts of forgiveness, guidance, and learning from the Quran.

Amidst the observance of Ramadan, several Muslim organizations are initiating donation drives, reinforcing the importance of philanthropy during the holy month. The Marawi City-based Sponsor An Orphan Project Inc., for instance, is soliciting food donations to provide iftar meals for underprivileged children and families in Lanao del Sur, highlighting the communal spirit of giving and support that characterizes the month of Ramadan.