Ramadhan’s Role in Peacebuilding and Social Harmony in BARMM Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has long been a region striving for peace and development. As a region deeply rooted in Islamic faith and traditions, Ramadhan serves as a powerful medium for peacebuilding, promoting social harmony, empathy, and community solidarity through its Islamic teachings. 

Ramadhan is a sacred period of the year marked by fasting, prayer, and self-discipline. It is a time when Muslims seek to strengthen their relationship with Allah through increased worship, charity, and good deeds. More than its spiritual requirements, Ramadhan fosters collective introspection, encouraging communities to reflect on their actions and seek reconciliation where conflicts exist, especially with friends and relatives. 

In BARMM, where historical conflicts have shaped the socio-political landscape, Ramadhan provides an opportunity for dialogue and forgiveness to individuals and families with rido. The spirit of fasting instills patience and self-control, necessary virtues for conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Many local leaders and community elders use this month to initiate peace dialogues and resolve disputes across the region, reinforcing the Islamic principle of sulh (reconciliation). 

Building Unity Through Worship and Giving 

One of the most significant aspects of Ramadhan is its emphasis on community engagement as part of giving back to the community and an integral part of Islam. The iftar gatherings bring together families, neighbors, and even former enemies, fostering a sense of unity and shared humanity. In Marawi City and even across the region, various community-organized iftar events have served as platforms for peace initiatives, bridging gaps between different sectors of society. 

Iftar drives organized by students and individuals, aimed at helping those less fortunate during the holy month are especially notable due to how it became a tradition and is done anually. These efforts provide meals and essential things to morits in torils, masjids, and even underprivileged families. This act of generosity exemplifies the values of Ramadhan, ensuring that everyone, regardless of social status, experiences the blessings of the holy month through these people. Through such efforts, it strengthens the social fabric of BARMM, reducing tensions and fostering mutual understanding. 

Zakat and sadaqah are significant parts of Ramadan. These acts of generosity directly contribute to peacebuilding by addressing socio-economic imbalance. Throughout BARMM, where poverty remains a challenge, Ramadan encourages able individuals to support the less fortunate, ensuring that no one is left behind in this blessed month. By promoting economic justice, Ramadan helps reduce inequality, which is often a root cause of conflict. When economic gaps are lessened, social tensions decrease, leading to a more stable and peaceful society. Through these charitable acts, communities in BARMM experience a greater sense of fairness and inclusion, helping to break cycles of poverty and division, even for a moment. 

Religious and Community Leaders in Peacebuilding

 Religious leaders play a pivotal role in shaping public consciousness during Ramadhan. Their sermons and teachings emphasize the values of peace and tolerance. Many local organizations also leverage the spirit of Ramadhan to implement peace programs such as peace forums, islamic seminars, and youth engagement projects are commonly organized during this period of the year. Usually, they highlight the importance of non-violence, respect for each other, and community solidarity—essential components of long-term peacebuilding in the Bangsamoro region. 

Better Governance for Conflict Resolution 

The Bangsamoro government recognizes the significance of Ramadhan in reinforcing governance and conflict resolution efforts. Local government units and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) often use this time to launch peace campaigns and mediation programs. The promotion of Islamic teachings on justice and fairness during Ramadhan aligns with BARMM’s goal of establishing a just and inclusive governance system. 

Moreover, Ramadhan encourages leaders to govern with taqwa (God-consciousness), ensuring that decisions uphold the principles of justice, compassion, and integrity. The month serves as a reminder that leadership should be exercised with humility and in service to the people, as always. 

Bridging Communities Through Ramadan 

While Ramadhan is an Islamic observance, its core values—self-discipline, empathy, and generosity—resonate across religious and cultural lines. In Lanao del Sur, especially in MSU, interfaith groups often join in Ramadhan activities, fostering mutual respect and understanding. This inclusivity strengthens social harmony and helps counteract religious extremism, reinforcing that peace transcends religious boundaries.

Ramadhan in BARMM is more than a month of fasting; it is a season of peacebuilding. Through its emphasis on self-reflection, charity, shared solidarity, and governance guided by Islamic values, Ramadhan serves as a pillar for fostering a culture of peace in the region. As BARMM continues its journey toward stability and prosperity, the spirit of Ramadhan will remain a guiding light, inspiring unity and reconciliation among its people. By living out the teachings of Ramadan beyond the holy month, BARMM can cultivate a lasting culture of peace—one that thrives on compassion, justice, and collective progress. 

References: 

https://bangsamoro.gov.ph/news/latest-news/understanding-ramadhan-and-the-virtues-it-brings/ https://www.researchgate.net/publication/329587787_Role_of_Islam_in_Global_Peace-Building _and_Harmony_An_Analysis_of_Pacts_of_Madina_and_Hudaibiya