MAYOR Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar and the Interfaith Council, in solidarity with the local Muslim community during the observance of Ramadan, hosted Friday, May 31, "Iftar" for fasting Muslims on R.T. Lim Boulevard, Zamboanga City.

Iftar is the evening meal with which Muslims end their daily Ramadan fast at sunset. They break their fast at the time of the call to pray for the evening prayer.

The hosting of Iftar or "Pagbukah" has been the tradition of Salazar during Ramadan, which will culminate with the celebration of Eid'l Fitr, locally known as "Hariraya Puasa," on June 5.

Ramadan, being one of the five pillars of Islam, is an entire month during which Muslims focus on purifying themselves, getting closer to God, and growing in their faith.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.

Malacañang has issued a proclamation declaring June 5 a regular holiday. (SunStar Philippines)