MESSAGE ON THE START OF THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN

We are one with our Muslim brothers and sisters around the world in the observance of the start of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

This year's celebration of the most sacred month in the Islamic culture will be very different and unusual due to the crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. These trying times will only attest and strengthen the spirit of Ramadan�to endure challenges no matter how difficult, to be compassionate towards others, and to show strong faith and solidarity.

Kasabay ng sagradong pagdiriwang na ito ang sama-sama nating pagninilay at pagdarasal para sa agarang lunas sa COVID-19, paggaling ng may sakit at kaligtasan ng ating mga frontliners.

Dalangin din natin na sa halip na pananakot at karahasan, pangunahan sana ng gobyerno ang mabilis at epektibong pagtugon sa banta ng COVID-19. Gamitin nang tapat ang nakalaang pondo, kasama na ang ayuda mula sa pribadong sektor, upang matulungan ang nangangailangan at makabangon ang mga komunidad na labis na naapektuhan ng krisis.

Let us continue to pray for this crisis to end, for the well-being of our countrymen, and for us to work together in achieving our shared goal of lasting peace and justice in our country.

Ramadan Mubarak!

(Sgd.) LEILA M. DE LIMA