Iftar, or breaking the fast at sunset, is one of the most significant practices observed by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan. It marks the end of daily fasting and serves as a time for spiritual reflection, communal gatherings, and strengthening one’s faith and sense of unity.
In line with this tradition, the UP Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS), in partnership with the World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY) Philippines and the Student Association for Islamic Affairs (SAIA), organized a Solidarity Iftar on March 16, 2025, at the UP Promenade, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City.
With the theme “A Solidarity Iftar: Offering the Spirit of Ramadan,” the event brought together both Muslim and non-Muslim attendees, fostering interfaith dialogue and a shared appreciation of Ramadan’s significance. It highlighted universal values such as compassion, generosity, and solidarity—core principles that lie at the heart of the observance of fasting.
The program formally opened with welcoming remarks from Asst. Prof. Darwin J. Absari, faculty member and College Secretary of UP IIS. He described UP Diliman as “an open community that embraces diversity and different faiths,” emphasizing that the event was not only a Ramadan gathering but also a demonstration of solidarity within the UP community.
The lectures that followed provided deeper insights into the spiritual and intellectual aspects of Ramadan. Atty. Anwarul Wadud Tipu, Legal Adviser of WAMY Philippines, delivered the first lecture on the significance of fasting, explaining that it is a form of ibada (worship) and that the ultimate goal of Ramadan is to attain taqwa (God-consciousness). He encouraged students and professionals to cultivate sincerity and attentiveness in their studies and work while fasting, making Ramadan a time of both personal growth and productivity.
The final lecture was presented by Prof. Julkipli Wadi, Dean of UP IIS, who underscored the importance of lifelong learning, particularly for the youth, in understanding civilizations. He emphasized that education is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, citing the world’s first recorded university—Al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco—which was established between 857 and 859 by Fatima al-Fihri. In 970AD, the famous Al-Azhar University was established in Cairo, Egypt. Over the centuries, it evolved into one of the leading educational and spiritual institutions of the Islamic Golden Age.
Following the lectures, a communal prayer was held before breaking the fast. Attendees observed Islamic tradition by first consuming dates and water before enjoying a full meal prepared for the gathering.
This initiative aligns with the mission of UP IIS to foster deeper understanding among diverse communities. By opening the Iftar gathering to people of all backgrounds, the event not only strengthened bonds within the Muslim community but also encouraged dialogue and cultural appreciation among non-Muslims.
As Ramadan continues, UP IIS and its partners reaffirm their commitment to strengthening interfaith connections and promoting a culture of empathy and understanding. Events like the Solidarity Iftar serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of shared values, mutual respect, and the enduring spirit of unity that defines the holy month.