MANILA — As the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) joins in the observance of Ramadan, the military is urging the Muslim faithful to be vigilant against groups who are out to sow chaos and disorder during the Islamic holy month.
“The AFP — most especially the Muslims amongst us — is one with the Islamic faith in wishing that this month-long period of penance, prayer, and reflection remind each one us of the value of peace, love, and sense of community,” AFP spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo said Wednesday.
“We wish to exhort our Muslim brethren to be very vigilant, though. The AFP is conscious of the possibility that unscrupulous individuals or groups may be out to sow chaos. Let us, together, prevent them from disrupting the solemn observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan,” he added.
The AFP also assured that it will exercise caution and will be mindful of the sensitivities called for during the occasion while conducting focused military operations necessary to safeguard the people and the communities.
Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, officially began on Thursday.
It is commemorated by Muslims around the world through fasting from sunrise to sunset and prayers. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)
