Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez FILE PHOTO / Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives
MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez assured Filipino Muslims on Monday, as the Holy Month of Ramadan starts, that their rights and freedom would constantly be protected by Congress.
Romualdez in his message for the start of Ramadan said that the holy month is a reminder for people — regardless of religious affiliations — to reflect on how they can contribute in addressing global challenges.
“This holy month is a reminder to us all, regardless of our faith, to pause and ponder on our lives, our actions, and how we can contribute to a better, more understanding world. In this time of global challenges, the message of Ramadan is more relevant than ever,” Romualdez said in a statement.
“I am committed, along with my colleagues in the House of Representatives, to supporting and protecting the rights and freedoms of our Muslim community. We stand with you in the pursuit of peace and justice for all Filipinos,” he added.
According to Romualdez, Ramadan “holds a special significance” as it is a time for deep prayer and reflection for the Filipino Muslim community and other Muslims across the globe.
“As families across the Philippines and the world begin the observance of Ramadan, I want to extend my deepest and most heartfelt greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters embarking on this sacred month,” he said.
“Ramadan holds a special significance, a time for introspection, renewal, and peace. It is a period that calls for deep reflection, prayer, and community. On a personal note, I have been profoundly moved by the dedication and commitment I have witnessed in the Filipino Muslim community during this holy time. Your faith and devotion inspire a sense of unity and compassion that is truly admirable,” he added.
Romualdez also assured Filipino Muslims that they are not alone in reflecting and aspiring to be better individuals.
“As you fast and reflect, know that you do not do so in isolation. The spirit of Ramadan, with its values of sacrifice, empathy, and charity, resonates beyond cultural and religious boundaries. It inspires us all to be better individuals, to reach out to those in need, and to work towards a society marked by peace and mutual respect,” he said.
“May this Ramadan bring you and your families peace, health, and happiness. May your prayers and sacrifices be accepted, and may this sacred time bring us closer together as a nation,” he added.
Sheikh Abdulrauf Guialani, the Bangsamoro Jurist (Mufti), officially declared the start of Ramadan on March 12 as the Bangsamoro Darul Ifta failed to sight the new moon on Sunday evening.
The new moon is a key celestial marker to signify the start of Ramadan.
READ: Bangsamoro Mufti declares start of Ramadan on Tuesday
Ramadan is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting, prayer, reflection and charity. For 30 days, Muslims will adhere to a strict daily fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from consuming food or water during daylight hours.
READ: Marcos urges forgiveness, harmony in Ramadan message
Earlier, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to imbibe the virtue of forgiveness and harmony despite cultural differences as the Muslim community starts the observance of Ramadan.
Marcos also cited the Muslims’ “invaluable” contributions to the Philippines’ history and heritage.