Today, March 12, marks the start of Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar that is devoted to prayer, fasting, charitable giving, and religious devotion.

Attention to the significance of Filipino Muslims is manifested by the carving out of a separate and distinct Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to accelerate the pace of development. There are nearly seven million Filipino Muslims, according to the 2020 census of religious affiliation, and significant numbers of Muslim faithful have been integrated with the predominantly Christian populace all over the country.  

Forgiveness is the theme of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s message at the commencement of Ramadan. In a broader context, forgiveness implies reconciliation and unity among all Filipinos.

Acknowledging that “our Muslim brothers and sisters have made invaluable contributions to our nation's history and heritage, (and) shaping our beloved motherland into the diverse and united country that it is today,” he hoped that Filipinos would be open to forgiving those who have wronged them and work together towards a prosperous nation. He also said Ramadan holds special significance as it serves as a reminder of the rich diversity of the cultural and religious tapestry in the Philippines.

Throughout the past decades, the national government has progressively enhanced the administrative structure for promoting Muslim development. Republic Act 9997 creating the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos under the Office of the President replaced the Office of Muslim Affairs (OMA) that was created shortly after the return to constitutional democracy in 1986.

Economic development is still priority number one. According to the ASEAN briefing website, the BARMM economy grew by 7.5 percent  in 2021, emerging as the second-fastest growing region among the 17 regions in the Philippines. High growth industries include: health and social work (22 percent); mining and quarrying (20 percent); accommodation and food services (17.9 percent); construction (12.2 percent); and financial and insurance activities (10.6 percent). Given its strategic location and proximity to Indonesia and Malaysia, two neighboring countries that offer huge potential, BARMM is also being eyed as a future hub for the halal industry that has an estimated potential size of $3 trillion, of which the country claimed a $500 million share of halal food exports in 2018.

Special focus of government attention is the promotion of inclusivity, equal opportunities, and cultural inclusivity within government institutions. Continuing efforts are being exerted to implement measures to address historical grievances and promote autonomy for marginalized communities, including the Filipino Muslims.

Indeed, as declared by President Marcos: “It is my hope that this month-long celebration will strengthen our kinship, open our hearts to forgive past grievances, and embrace a spirit of harmony that will redound to our collective progress. Together, let us build a future where love and understanding prevail and where the light of hope shines brightly for all.”