Duterte's Ramadan message: Live with integrity for the nation

President Rodrigo Duterte called on the people to live with integrity for the nation as he expressed his oneness with Filipino Muslims at the start of the  holy month of Ramadan.

In a message released on Sunday, Duterte said the month is a time for Muslims to experience and enjoy Allah's mercy.

"Similar to how the period of fasting ends with feasting, it is my hope that all your efforts for discipline and reflection will be rewarded with revelations as well as a deeper connection with Allah," he said.

"May this occasion likewise allow the teachings of the Qur'an to take precedence over all your decisions -- even the smallest ones. Let the enlightenment that comes with your contemplation lead you to live with integrity for yourselves and for the nation, especially now when it is needed most," he added.

The holy Islamic month of Ramadan started on Sunday, April 3, and will end with the Eid'l Fitr holiday. It calls for spiritual reflection through praying, fasting, and abstaining from "sinful behavior."—LDF, GMA News