Under the leadership of Governor Mujiv Hataman, the Provincial Government of Basilan officially welcomed the holy month of Ramadhan through the Ramadhan Lights Switch-On Ceremony, February 16, at the Provincial Capitol Grounds in Lamitan City.
The event formally opened Ramadhan Pakaradjaan Basilan 1447H–2026 and coincided with the province’s 52nd Founding Anniversary, highlighting faith, unity, and inclusive governance. For the first time, a large-scale Ramadhan celebration was held at the Provincial Capitol, with hundreds of Basileños from various sectors in attendance.
In his keynote message, Governor Hataman emphasized the importance of preserving Islamic values while fostering peace, inclusivity, and collective progress in Basilan. He expressed gratitude for the strong show of unity during the province’s first-ever Ramadhan Lights Switch-On at the capitol. “Salamat sa pagkakaisa. Lahat ng sektor ay nagkakasama ngayong gabi sa kauna-unahang Ramadan Lights Switch-On dito mismo sa kapitolyo,” Governor Hataman said.
As part of the Ramadan observance, Governor Hataman announced a P10,000 Ramadan bonus incentive for all provincial government employees and job order workers, recognizing their dedication and service. He also shared positive developments in government facilities, including uninterrupted power supply at the Capitol following the inauguration of the Parking Canopy and Solar Power Plant, reinforcing the province’s commitment to sustainability and efficient public service.
The program also featured a video teaser presenting the lineup of spiritual, cultural, and community activities prepared for Ramadhan Pakaradjaan Basilan 2026, encouraging public participation throughout the holy month.
Earlier in the program, Acting Provincial Administrator Manny Muarip delivered the welcome and opening remarks, noting that the Ramadhan lights symbolize hope and guidance toward a stronger and more united Basilan. “Ang liwanag na ito ay sumisimbolo ng ating pag-asa at gabay tungo sa mas matatag na ugnayan sa ating komunidad,” Muarip said.
The religious segment of the ceremony opened with a Qur’an recitation led by Ustadz Kiram S. Abdulkadir, followed by a message from Basilan Ulama Supreme Council chair Dr. Aboulkhair Tarason. In his message, he highlighted Ramadan as a sacred time for prayer, fasting, reflection, compassion, and strengthening one’s consciousness of Allah (SWT).
A solemn prayer was then officiated by Ustadz Munir Muluk, setting a reflective tone for the gathering.
The ceremony culminated in the Ramadhan Lights Switch-On, illuminating the Basilan Government Center Grounds and nearby government offices, symbolizing hope, guidance, and unity as Basilan welcomes Ramadan Mubarak 1447H.
The event was attended by provincial and city officials, including Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, Ms. Queenie Padilla, members of the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council, and other partner agencies.
The Provincial Government of Basilan continues to champion meaningful cultural and faith-based initiatives that strengthen harmony and shared identity among Basilenos. Residents and visitors are invited to visit the Lumah Raayat and the Basilan Government Center Grounds throughout the month of Ramadhan for various enriching activities prepared for every Basileño. (Details Courtesy of PGB PIO/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
