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The Office of the Chief Minister (OCM) building in Cotabato City. (Photo courtesy of Bangsamoro Information Office)
COTABATO CITY — Authorities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have finalized preparations for the observance of Ramadan, including participation in the global moon-sighting to determine the official start of the fasting month.
The Dar’ul Ifta of BARMM deployed trained personnel equipped with modern instruments to monitor the crescent moon.
Mufti Abdulrauf Guialani said fasting would begin Tuesday if the moon was sighted; otherwise, observance would start on Feb. 18.
Shortened Government Work Hours
The Office of the Chief Minister issued an advisory adjusting office hours during Ramadan.
From the usual 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., BARMM government offices will operate from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., without a lunch break. The schedule, long recognized by the Civil Service Commission, will automatically revert after Ramadan.
Trade Fair, Mosque Upgrades
Interim Chief Minister Abduraof Macacua led the opening of a Ramadan trade fair inside the BARMM government center.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism BARMM, features 60 micro, small and medium enterprises showcasing local products throughout the fasting month.
Past editions have drawn an average of 100,000 visitors and generated multimillion-peso sales, according to ministry records.
Macacua emphasized the connection between spiritual renewal and economic activity in building stronger regional autonomy.
“Spiritual renewal is done more solemn[ly] inside masajid (mosques) … This is imperative for us to realize the BARMM administration goal for moral governance,” he said.
He also oversaw renovation work at the Blue Mosque within the regional government compound to improve facilities for worshippers.
Observing the Holy Month
Ramadan, one of the five pillars of Islam, requires Muslims to fast from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food, drink and other physical needs, while also practicing restraint in speech and conduct.
Exemptions apply to the sick, breastfeeding mothers, menstruating women and travelers, who are required to make up missed fasts or provide meals to those observing.
Islamic teachings encourage believers to carry the discipline and reflection of Ramadan throughout the year.