MISAMIS ORIENTAL — The holy month of Ramadan will officially begin Thursday, 19 February for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) after religious authorities confirmed that the new moon was not sighted Tuesday evening.

The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’, the region’s Islamic advisory council, announced that the current month of Sha’ban will be completed to 30 days. Consequently, Ramadan 1, 1447 Hijri will fall on Thursday.

Bangsamoro Mufti Sheikh Abdulrauf A. Guialani issued the declaration following moon-sighting efforts across strategic areas, including Timako in Cotabato City. Regional leaders, including Bangsamoro chief minister Ahod “Al-Rashid” Balawag Ebrahim witnessed the observation process.

“The decision was reached in accordance with Islamic jurisprudence and established moon-sighting protocols,” Guialani said. He extended greetings to the faithful, expressing hope for a month of “peace, mercy and blessings.”

In Lanao del Sur, Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr. and local religious leaders joined the declaration, calling on residents to prepare for the monthlong fast. Meanwhile, the local government of Cagayan de Oro City announced it would adopt the BARMM schedule for its Muslim constituents.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred period of fasting, prayer and reflection. Muslims abstain from food, drink and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. The fast begins with a pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and ends with a sunset meal (iftar).

Throughout the month, mosques across the region will hold nightly Tarawih prayers. Islamic scholars are also expected to lead Qur’an readings and lectures focused on moral renewal and charity.

Regional authorities and religious leaders urged the community to use the period to strengthen family ties and support the vulnerable through almsgiving and community outreach.