COTABATO CITY — The holy month of Ramadan will officially begin on February 19, 2026 (Thursday) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao after the new moon was not sighted on Tuesday evening, 17 February.

In a formal announcement, the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ declared that the lunar observation conducted across designated areas yielded no confirmed sighting of the crescent moon (hilal). As a result, the current month of Sha’ban will be completed to 30 days, marking Ramadan 01, 1447 Hijri on 19 February.

Bangsamoro Mufti Sheikh Abdulrauf A. Guialani announced the decision, emphasizing that it was reached in accordance with Islamic jurisprudence and established moon-sighting protocols. He extended his greetings to the Muslim faithful, expressing hope that the holy month would bring peace, mercy, and blessings to the community.

The official moon sighting activity was conducted in Timako, Kalanganan II, Cotabato City, and was witnessed by Bangsamoro leaders, including Abdulraof Macacoa, Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The participation of regional officials underscored the significance of the event and the unity of religious and civil authorities in observing Islamic traditions.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer, charity, and reflection. The confirmation of its start through moon sighting remains a vital religious practice, symbolizing obedience to faith and communal harmony.

As Muslims across BARMM and the country prepare for Ramadan, religious authorities encouraged the faithful to observe the month with devotion, compassion, and solidarity, especially toward the poor and vulnerable.

Advance Ramadan Mubarak to the Muslim Ummah.