President Rodrigo Roa Duterte rallied for national unity Monday as the entire nation joins the Muslim world in commemorating Ramadan.

In his message, the President said “this period of fasting reminds us of the value of sacrifice, obedience, and charity in our daily lives.”

“As we mark this holy occasion, I ask everyone to promote solidarity among all Filipinos by manifesting faith through action and by fostering peace, hope, and unity as we face the most challenging times,” he said, encouraging Filipinos to come together and channel the spirit of Ramadan by helping the less fortunate and those in need.

“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.”

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is the holy month of fasting, spiritual reflection and prayer for Muslims.

Ramadan, taken from the Arabic word, “ramad,” is believed to be the month in which the Prophet Muhammad revealed the Quran to Muslims.

This year, Ramadan started on Monday, April 12 or Tuesday, April 13 and will last until May 11. PND