MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Philippines has a long history as the country with the largest Catholic population in Asia. Catholic churches are scattered throughout the Philippine Islands and are an essential part of their culture and national identity. Therefore, the nickname “Land of a Thousand Churches” is attributed to the Philippines, describing the dominance of Roman Catholicism in the country.
Despite the majority of the population being Catholic, the excitement of Ramadan can still be felt in the Land of a Thousand Churches. The Indonesian Embassy in the Philippines is one of the entities enlivening the Ramadan month there. On Saturday (April 6, 2024), the Indonesian Embassy in the Philippines held a traditional iftar with joy and togetherness. The event was held in the heart of Manila, specifically in Makati.
This iftar event was attended not only by Indonesians but also by people from various countries such as Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and, of course, the Philippines. The happiness was evident on the faces of those who participated in the iftar at the Indonesian Embassy in the Philippines. Interestingly, the Indonesian Embassy held iftar events for the entire month.
The iftar gathering on Saturday (6/4/2024) became a special moment as it was attended by the Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines, Agus Widjojo. Despite his busy schedule filled with many engagements, he graciously attended the event.
Meanwhile, in metropolitan areas of the Philippines such as Metro Manila, iftar becomes a warm occasion where family members can gather after a day of fasting. Muslim restaurants and special Ramadan night markets become the center of attention, offering a variety of delicious Filipino dishes as well as Arab and Turkish specialties.
Amid the enticing aroma of spices, prayers are also heard being offered before taking the first sip of water and starting the meal. Religious leaders lead communal prayers in mosques filled with blessings. Meanwhile, families gather in their homes to share stories and happiness.
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However, the celebration of breaking the fast is not limited to big cities. In remote villages, Muslim communities also celebrate Ramadan in a simple yet meaningful way. They share food with their non-Muslim neighbors, demonstrating the spirit of tolerance and brotherhood that has long been a hallmark of diversity in the Philippines.
In terms of the Muslim population, the number in the Philippines is certainly much lower compared to Indonesia. The island in the Philippines with the largest Muslim population is Mindanao. In fact, many residents around Manila come from Mindanao. One of the drivers at the Indonesian Embassy is from Mindanao and he is the only Muslim driver.
The tradition of communal iftar in the Philippines is not only a religious aspect but also a symbol of diversity and unity in a pluralistic society. Amid challenges and differences, the month of Ramadan brings people from various backgrounds together to celebrate the values of togetherness and love. With a burning spirit, Muslims in Manila step forward with hope and happiness, marking the holy month of Ramadan with the sincerity and warmth characteristic of the beloved Philippines.
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Regarding the menu served during iftar at the Indonesian Embassy, it always features Indonesian cuisine. Among the dishes are kolak pisang, fried snacks, bakwan, es Pallu Butung, sweet sticky rice porridge, and, of course, dates.
As a Dai Ambassador from Dompet Dhuafa who was sent far away to Manila, Ustaz Andi Triyawan still feels at home and close to his family. Ustaz Andi shares that wherever he is in the Philippines, he always feels a sense of brotherhood with the locals because Islam unites nations, tribes, and races. Just like the principle in Indonesia, unity in diversity, in an international context, it remains Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Ustaz Andi Triyawan, Dai Ambassador Dompet Dhuafa 2024