Philippines' Bangsamoro Iftar draws thousands to celebrate Faith, community...

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in the Philippines transformed into a vibrant tapestry of lights and tradition as ‘Ramadan Villages’ sprang up across the region and marked the holy month.

They showcased local delicacies and Iftar meals to thousands of nightly visitors.

Footage captured on Monday March 16, 2026 depicted the lively transformation in Cotabato City; once quiet public plazas and empty lots reborn as Ramadan Villages. The ‘People’s Palace’ (City Hall) served as a backdrop for night sports, trade fairs, and food parks that remain active until the early morning hours.

In Ditsaan-Ramain, history was etched in light as the longest Ramadan street light installation in the BARMM region.

Not far away, the municipality of Marantao debuted its first-ever synchronised light show. The local government building served as a canvas for a modern illumination display, culminated in a grand fireworks show that illuminated the night sky.

For the local Muslim community, the historic municipal hall glowing in honour of their faith was a landmark moment.

"All Muslims, and probably Christians as well, are very happy because this is the first time in Zamboanga to have this kind of Ramadan village," says Julaida, a local Muslim entrepreneur. "It is a gesture that gives importance to our Ramadan observance."

This sentiment is echoed by the youth, who view these displays as a bridge between cultures.

Nurufitri Hail, a Humanities and Social Sciences student, noted that the village represents more than just a photo opportunity. "This is a chance to showcase our region, especially our observance of Ramadan, and it brings us immense joy," Hail remarked.

Mindanao Muslims, known as the Moro people, comprise 13 ethnic groups and constitute the largest non-Christian population in the Philippines, numbering over 7 million, or about 6.5 percent of the total population.