President Rodrigo Duterte (Screengrab from RTVM’s Facebook page)
MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has called on Filipinos to unite and help those who are in need as Muslims commemorate the holy month of Ramadan.
The month-long Ramadan of the Muslim faithful begins on Tuesday, April 13.
Duterte said he joins Muslim Filipinos in commemorating the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Mohammad, adding that the period of fasting during Ramadan is a reminder of the “value of sacrifice, obedience and charity.”
“In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, may peace, mercy and blessings be upon you all on the holy month of Ramadan,” he said in a message on Monday.
“As we mark this holy occasion, I ask everyone to promote solidarity among all Filipinos by manifesting faith through action and by fostering peace, hope and unity as we face the most challenging of times,” he added.
Duterte said Filipinos should “channel the spirit of Ramadan” by helping those who are less fortunate and “most in need.”
He wished Filipinos can move forward “with courage, hope, and optimism as the blessings of Ramadan bring peace and prosperity to the entire nation.”
Ramadan is observed on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar where Muslims across the world fast from dawn to dusk, pray and give alms.