As the sighting of the new moon heralds the start of the Ramadan, I join my fellow Muslim brothers and sisters in this holy month of worship, prayer, and fasting.

As a proud daughter of Mindanao, I consider this solemn occasion a time of reflection, renewed faith, and deeper connection with Allah. May fasting help us draw closer to Him and use this period of introspection, prayers, and discipline in guiding all Muslim Filipinos towards a life of integrity.

May this sacred month also be a time for us to foster unity, forgiveness, compassion and peace among our countrymen especially at this time as we move towards creating a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient society where no Filipinos would be left behind.

May Allah shower all His blessings upon each of us on this holy month and may He answer our prayers.

Ramadan Kareem.

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

SECRETARY AMENAH F. PANGANDAMAN