GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 23, 2023) — The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and Darul Ifta’ of the Bangsamoro Government have declared March 23, 2023 as the start of Ramadhan, the holy month of fasting in the Muslim world.
In an announcement by the NCMF yesterday (March 22), the premier agency for the Muslims Filipinos said that the new moon (hilal) was sighted in the country prompting its declaration that Ramadhan1444 Hijra commences on March 23.
The announcement was signed by NCMF Commissioner and Spokesperson Yusoph Mando.
The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta announced on March 21 that the moon was not sighted during their conduct of moonsighting. “Based on this, the Bansgamoro Darul Ifta’ has decided that the beginning of Ramadhan will be on Thursday March 23, 2023,” the declaration stated.
It was signed by Sheikh Abdulrauf A. Guialani, Deputy Mufti of the Bangsamoro, in the absence of Mufti Sheikh Abuhuraira Udasan.
Fasting during Ramadhan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Male and female Muslims who are in good health, sane and have reached puberty are required to observe fasting starting on pre-dawn until sunset.
Fasting Muslims abstain from drinking, eating and engaging in sexual act. Ramadhan is also a time for reflection, self-discipline and giving charity. ### (Gandhi Kinjiyo/BMN/BangsamoroToday, Photo by BMN, NCMF GenSan Facebook)
