MANILA — Faith through action can foster a sense of solidarity among all Filipinos, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said as he joined Muslim Filipinos in their observance of the fasting month of Ramadan, which will begin May 17.
In his Ramadan message on Wednesday, Duterte wished Muslim Filipinos the presence of “peace, mercy and the blessings of Allah” on the occasion of Ramadan.
He noted that Ramadan is a time for the Islamic faithful to reflect on the principles of the Qur’an and how these relate to their thoughts and actions as Muslims through fasting and prayer.
“This significant event reveals to them the will of Allah and reaffirms their resolve to achieve spiritual cleansing and growth,” Duterte said.
Ramadan is a “time of devotion and contemplation,” he said, adding that sacrifices are needed to overcome not only personal difficulties, but also the creating of lasting strides in communities.
The President, meanwhile, expressed hope that Muslim Filipinos continue to do help the poor and the marginalized members of society by demonstrating the noble teaching of Islam.
“I ask that you foster a sense of solidarity among all Filipinos by manifesting faith through action. 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,” Duterte said.