ILIGAN CITY (PIA) — Public servants, military personnel, and government officials attended a Ramadan Iftar hosted by the local government of Nunungan to strengthen cooperation among public servants from various agencies in Lanao del Norte.
Iftar, the evening meal that Muslims consume to break their fast during Ramadan, marks the end of a day of fasting with prayer and a shared meal.
“What’s important here is the camaraderie and the bonding within our group. The objective of this activity is to strengthen our bond, oneness, and solidarity while effectively performing our responsibilities because we are all public servants,” said Nunungan Mayor Marcos Mamay, who also serves as the national vice president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines.
Brigadier General Anthon G. Abrina, commander of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, emphasized the importance of unity among public servants, especially from the Armed Forces of the Philippines. He also reiterated the military’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful election.
Lieutenant Colonel Neil F. Piad, commander of the 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, underscored the importance of interfaith cooperation, noting that activities like the Ramadan Iftar foster unity and collaboration for the peace and development of Lanao del Norte.
“This is a good experience na makipaghalubilo sa kapwa natin Filipino na Muslim dito sa Lanao del Norte sa ganitong celebration dahil mapapaigting natin ang cooperation,” he said.
(This is a good experience to engage with our fellow Filipino Muslims here in Lanao del Norte through this celebration, as it strengthens our cooperation with one another.)
Provincial Board Member Cristy Atay expressed gratitude for the Iftar experience, recognizing the efforts of the military and police in maintaining peace in the province on behalf of the provincial governor. Board Member Grecille Matalines, on the hand hand, highlighted Iftar’s role in building relationships and unity among Muslims and Christians.
Celebrity guests Alma Concepcion, Ynez Veneracion, and Selina Sevilla participated in the celebration, learning more about Muslim culture. Concepcion, who has visited Mindanao previously, described the region as safe and clean, countering prior misconceptions. She shared her appreciation for the Muslim community’s warmth during the Iftar.
Veneracion expressed her enjoyment of the warm hospitality, while Sevilla, reflecting on her roots in Cotabato City, deepened her connection to the Muslim community and praised their cultural heritage.
The celebration also included a raffle with home appliances and other prizes. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
