Duterte’s Ramadan message to Muslims: Continue helping poor

President Rodrigo Duterte. TOTO LOZANO / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday urged Filipino Muslims “to continue to do good deeds for the poor” and help participate in nation-building.

“By demonstrating the noble teachings of Islam, it is my fervent hope that you continue to do good deeds for the poor and the marginalized members of the society,” Duterte said in his message for the start of Ramadan.

“I ask that you foster a sense of solidarity among all Filipinos by manifesting faith through action,” he added. “Let us join hands in the shared task of nation-building as we make the Philippines a more inclusive, peaceful and united country in the years to come.”

The President said Muslims “must make sacrifices not only to overcome personal difficulties but also to create meaningful and lasting strides in our communities.”

Muslims in the Philippines on Thursday started observing the Holy month of Ramadan.

READ: Ramadan: Dawn-to-dusk fast for Filipino Muslims starts