President Benigno Aquino III has extended his “warmest and most sincere” greeting to Muslim Filipinos as the holy month of Ramadan began.
“May this sacred occasion bring you closer to the Almighty, becoming his instruments of peace and unity as the Filipino nation gathers on our shared journey to create a more prosperous and equitable nation,” Aquino said in a statement released days after an initial decommissioning of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters.
READ: Aquino: Decommissioning proves peace pact not a gamble
“Ramadan is among the holiest of seasons, signifying the time of Allah’s first revelations to Mohammad…It is a time for you to embody the teachings of the Holy Quran as you practice greater discipline, compassion, and restraint,” he explained.
As the administration pushes for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in Congress, Aquino pointed out that the country has achieved unprecedented “heights of progress and inclusiveness through solidarity and cooperation.”
“Our entire country is with you in spirit as you observe this time of deep reflection. May we continue to exhibit excellence, integrity, and accountability in our deeds, and achieve greater milestones in nation-building,” the President said.
Muslim tradition says Ramadan is the month when the Quran was revealed to the prophet Mohammed. It is commemorated through prayer and fasting.
READ: Muslim month of Ramadan starts Thursday in Saudi, Gulf, Jordan
In a separate statement, peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said the it is “divine intervention” that the ceremonial decommissioning took place just before the Ramadan.
“On 16 June 2015, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants and weapons held their first phase of ceremonial decommissioning in accordance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). Ramadhan showcases the willingness of Muslims around the world to be humbled by sacrifices,” she said.
Ferrer said she will also pray that other Filipinos value sacrifice and selflessness.
“May we, as a people, finally abstain from fear and prejudice so that we may truly understand one another. May we, as a nation, regain our trust on each other and celebrate our diversity,” she added.