Marcos says Ramadan is time for humility, discipline

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday said the holy Islamic month of Ramadan is a period to practice the values of discipline and humility.

In his message, Marcos said he joins the Muslim community in the Philippines and around the world as they welcome and observe the Holy Month of Ramadan.

“This season of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving is an opportune time to embody the values of discipline, reverence, and humility,” Marcos 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.

Marcos urged the public to include in their prayers those who are 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 enriched with cultural diversity, let us allow our hearts to embrace the profound truth that respect conquers divisions, understanding obliterates prejudice and love prevails over all,” he added.

Ramadan, which starts on Thursday, calls for spiritual reflection through praying, fasting, and abstaining from sinful behavior.

It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar that is being observed worldwide. —Anna Felicia Bajo/KBK, GMA Integrated News