By Katrina Gracia Consebido
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday, March 23, joined the Muslim community in the observance of Ramadan as he wished for a “solemn and blessed observance.”
“This season of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving is an opportune time to embody the values of discipline, reverence, and humility,” he said.
“The spiritual belief that the gate of Heaven is open during this sacred month calls upon our brothers and sisters to purify their souls against the perils of worldly pleasures as well as seek for forgiveness and peace,” he added.
The President also called for the inclusion to prayers of those “in deep distress caused by hunger, natural calamities, and unfavorable circumstances.”
“The rituals and services during Ramadhan remind us of our shared moral obligation–regardless of faith to compassionately take care of each other, uphold our human dignity, and stand in solidarity,” he said.
“As a nation with cultural diversity, let us allow our hearts to embrace the profound truth that respect conquers division, understanding obliterates prejudice, and love prevails over all,” he added.
Muslims around the world observe Ramadan as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community from the evening of March 22 to the evening of April 20. – ag
