First synchronized start of Ramadan in Philippines

The symbol of the Islamic faith is the crescent moon – the new moon.  Expected Thursday, July 19 around 6 pm in the Philippines, this moon will signal the start of the holy month of Ramadan, the time of fasting, cleansing and renewal.  Moon-sighting committees in Zamboanga, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Cotabato will be watching the night skies closely and – for the first time ever, the Philippines will synchronize the start of Ramadan throughout the country.  In the past, western Mindanao started Ramadan ahead of other Muslim areas.

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