The fasting season has begun for the country's two major faiths. For Muslims, the start of Ramadan is set for February 19 after the crescent moon, which is the traditional sign of the beginning of the holy month, was not sighted. Meanwhile, Roman Catholics have also officially begun Ash Wednesday, signaling the beginning of Lent in the Church's liturgical calendar.
According to Islamic leaders, the actual sighting of the new moon is essential before declaring the start of Ramadan. During this month, devout Muslims observe fasting from sunrise to sunset, as a form of discipline, prayer, and spiritual purification. There are exceptions for the elderly, pregnant, breastfeeding, and menstruating, in consideration of each individual's health and condition.
For Catholics, Ash Wednesday is a symbol of repentance and conversion. In this ritual, believers are placed ashes on their foreheads—ashes from the burnt palms of the previous Palm Sunday. This is accompanied by a call for fasting and abstinence, which is practiced every Friday of Lent and especially on Good Friday. This tradition is not only practiced by Catholics but also by some branches of Christianity.
Despite the differences in beliefs, the simultaneous celebration of faith, discipline, and spiritual reflection in the country is remarkable. The start of Ramadan and Ash Wednesday are reminders of the Philippines' deep religious culture—a time of quiet reflection and refocusing on what truly matters.
