Ramadan Begins in Bangsamoro, Security Tightened Across Southern PH

Muslim communities across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and other parts of southern Philippines have begun observing the holy month of Ramadan with the traditional dawn-to-dusk fasting.

During Ramadan, physically fit Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset as part of their religious obligation, focusing on repentance, self-discipline, and reconciliation.

Local officials in Cotabato and South Cotabato have pledged to expand humanitarian assistance for Muslim constituents during the fasting season in support of the government’s peace initiatives in Moro communities. South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., who chairs the Regional Peace and Order Council 12, said he has requested the Police Regional Office 12 and the Army’s 6th Infantry Division to ensure the safety of worship sites.

Members of the Bangsamoro parliament, including lawyers Jet Lim and Naguib Sinarimbo, and physician-ophthalmologist Kadil Sinolinding Jr., have also begun separate Ramadan-related humanitarian activities with the support of BARMM Chief Minister Abdulrauf Macacua.

Macacua has issued a memorandum adjusting government working hours from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday to allow fasting employees to prepare for iftar, the first meal after sunset.

Despite the observance, emergency response services under the Ministry of Health-BARMM will continue operations throughout Ramadan, according to Sinolinding.

Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Minister Muslimin Sema also said members of the Moro National Liberation Front would assist security forces in maintaining peace during the religious season.

Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, welcomed the support of the MNLF and Moro Islamic Liberation Front, along with local officials, in ensuring order.

Authorities said no immediate threats related to religious activities have been monitored, while more than 350 police officers have been deployed across Metro Manila to secure Muslim communities observing Ramadan.

House Speaker Faustino Dy III described Ramadan as a period of discipline, sacrifice, and solidarity for the faithful.