Duterte calls for aid to needy, solidarity in Ramadan message

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte urged the Muslim community yesterday to mark the holy month of Ramadan by helping the less fortunate.

“As we mark this holy occasion, I ask everyone to promote solidarity among Filipinos by manifesting faith through action and by fostering peace, hope and unity as we face the most challenging times,” he said, referring to the coronavirus pandemic.

In a one-page statement released by the Office of the President, Duterte also pushed for solidarity. “Let us all come together and channel the spirit of Ramadan by helping those who are less fortunate and most in need,” he said.

At the start of his message, Duterte greeted the Muslim community to mark Ramadan. “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, may peace, mercy and blessings be upon you on the holy month of Ramadan,” he said.

“The entire nation joins our Muslim sisters and brothers as we commemorate the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Mohammad. One of the Five Pillars of Islam, this period of fasting reminds us of the value of sacrifice, obedience and charity in our daily lives,” Duterte added.

He also urged the Muslim community to view the future with optimism.

“It is my hope that we can all move forward with courage, hope and optimism as the blessings of Ramadan bring peace and prosperity to the entire nation. May we all have a meaningful observance. Ramadan Mubarak!” he said.

Meanwhile, Vice President Leni Robredo also joined yesterday the Muslim community in their observance of Ramadan amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I join the entire Muslim community in solemn reflection as another lunar year marks the start of the holy month of Ramadan,” Robredo said in a statement.

“As we humbly receive the grace, wisdom and guidance that comes through faith, may we be brought together and be reminded of our common humanity – our common struggles and the common hope that binds us – and in this find the strength not only to endure, but to imagine a better normal for all, and build it,” she said.

The start of Ramadan this year falls on April 13 and ends in the evening of May 12.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Carlito Galvez Jr. likewise greeted Muslims in their celebration of Ramadan.

“Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh. May the peace, mercy and blessings of Allah be with you,” Galvez said in a statement.

Galvez urged Muslims and the entire Filipino people to devote this blessed month of Ramadan “to fasting, prayer and almsgiving, let us all join hands in solidarity as we pray for the health and safety of our people and the recovery of our nation from this health crisis.” – Helen Flores, Jose Rodel Clapano