NCMF asks non-Muslims to be courteous during Ramadan

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) on Monday called on non-Muslims to be sensitive towards Muslims who are fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.

In a public briefing, NCMF National Capital Region Cultural Affairs Chief Esmael Abdul said that it was “challenging” for Muslims to abstain from food and drink when they see other people enjoying these essentials near them.

“Big challenge sa amin na kapag nakikita namin kayong kumakain. Halimbawa sa isang opisina na may nagfa-fasting, baka pwedeng hindi masyadong ipakita samin lalo na kung naamoy namin ‘yan. Talagang big challenge sa amin lalo na kung masarap ‘yung pagkain,” Abdul said.

(It’s a big challenge for us when we see you eating. For example, in an office where someone is fasting, I hope non-Muslims will not show us their food, especially if we smell it. It’s really a big challenge for us, especially if the food is delicious.)

The month-long observance of Ramadan is set to start on Tuesday, March 12, as the moon was not sighted on Sunday night, the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ announced.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during which believers of the Islamic faith observe fasting, as Muslims reflect, pray, and fast for spiritual discipline and strengthened faith.

“Napakahalaga ng buwan ng Ramadan. Sa totoo lang, ito ang nangunguna sa lahat ng buwan sa 12 months kasi ito ang pagbabalik loob ng mga Muslim, panahon para gumawa ng mga kabutihan. Dino-doble ang reward nito sa ating Panginoon,” Abdul said.

(The month of Ramadan is very important. It is the most important of all the months because it is when Muslims do good deeds and then Allah showers us with rewards.) — DVM, GMA Integrated News