One of the blessed months that the people of BARMM are anticipating is about to begin. As the crescent moon prepares to make its appearance, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) eagerly anticipates the beginning of Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.

What does Ramadhan signify in the lens of the Bangsamoro people? In BARMM, the spiritual significance of this sacred time intertwines deeply with cultural traditions which creates a unique atmosphere of faith, discipline, and community. On Friday, February 28, Bangsamoro Mufti Sheikh Abdulrauf A. Guialani will lead the moon sighting event, a tradition that determines the official start of Ramadan. This practice is a testament to the enduring customs of the Islamic faith which actively unites religious scholars and local leaders in observing the first visible crescent moon to mark the beginning of the fasting month.

What does practicing Ramadan look like for the people in BARMM? Ramadan is not just merely a time of abstaining from food and drink. It is a period of spiritual rejuvenation, prayer, and acts of charity. It is a period where you transform yourself into a better person with a goal in mind and faith at heart that it will happen by the will of the God. Ramadan is a month where unity shines amongst families and fellow Muslims; it is a time where you ignite hope with one another and to gain peace for each other.

In BARMM, families rise before dawn for Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal that sustains them through the day’s fast. As the sun sets, communities gather for Iftar, the breaking of the fast, often starting with dates and water, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad. Homes, mosques, and public spaces come alive with the spirit of togetherness as people share meals and engage in Taraweeh prayers, a special night prayer performed at mosques. The Tahajjud prayers that are more special in the month of Ramadan where every moment you spend in your prayer mat brings you closer to Allah and closer to peace. Acts of charity, known as Zakat and Sadaqah, also become more prominent during this month, with many Bangsamoro families extending help to the less fortunate, ensuring that no one is left behind in the celebration of faith and devotion.

The cultural vibrance of Ramadan in BARMM is evident in the local traditions that accompany the month-long observance. In many communities, volunteers prepare free meals for Iftar, reinforcing the Islamic values of generosity and compassion. Additionally, there are so many organizations that are mostly led by the youth that organize Iftar Drives which really helps the Muslim people that are marginalized.

During Ramadan, whether it be day or night, the air is filled with a sense of peace. The atmosphere is filled with calmness as it resonates with the recitation of the Quran especially since Muslims strive to complete its reading before the month ends. Ramadan also brings a sense of discipline and reflection as it prompts individuals to strengthen their faith and renew their commitment to good deeds. As the Bangsamoro community prepares for this spiritual journey, the region stands united in prayer and devotion, embracing the transformative power of Ramadan.

Reference:

GMA Integrated News. (2025, February 23). BARMM: Moon sighting set for Feb. 28 to determine start of Ramadan. GMA News. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/937121/barmm-moon-sighting-set-for-feb-28-to-determine-start-of-ramadan/story/