BARMM Launches 30-Day Ramadhan Meal Plan to Promote Safe, Healthy Fasting

COTABATO CITY (February 13)  — As Ramadhan approaches, the Bangsamoro Government’s Ministry of Health (MOH) has rolled out a 30-Day Ramadhan Meal Plan aimed at helping fasting individuals stay properly nourished and hydrated throughout the holy month.

The initiative, titled “Wastong Meal Plan, Healthy Ramadhan,” was introduced during the Science and Spirit of Faith Ramadhan 2026 Symposium held on February 11 in Cotabato City.

Designed to guide Muslims observing the fast from dawn to sunset, the meal plan offers structured recommendations for balanced suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (meal to break the fast), recognizing that daily food intake shifts from the usual three meals to two main meals during Ramadhan.

“The goal of the 30-Day Ramadhan Meal Plan is to keep nutrition balanced and sufficient even during fasting,” said Faith Laporca, senior health associate and registered nutrition dietitian at the MOH Nutrition Division. “We want to ensure that even with reduced eating hours, individuals are still getting the nutrients their bodies need.”

Science Meets Spirituality

The symposium underscored both the medical and spiritual dimensions of fasting.

Dr. Zul Qarneyn Abas, MOH deputy minister, presented “The Medical Lens: Fasting as a Benefit and Safety,” highlighting how proper fasting—when supported by adequate nutrition and hydration—can promote metabolic balance and overall well-being.

Meanwhile, Bangsamoro Darul Ifta (BDI) scholar Sheik Sadawi Sabang Cana delivered a reflection on “The Spiritual Lens: Fasting as a Pillar of Wellness,” emphasizing Ramadhan as a time for discipline, purification, and holistic health.

Jehan Ariman of the MOH Nutrition Division noted that the meal guide incorporates Sunnah practices, including breaking the fast with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.).

Focus on Local, Nutrient-Dense Foods

The 30-day guide encourages the consumption of affordable, locally available, and nutrient-rich food options such as:

• Malunggay
• Kangkong
• Sitaw
• Ampalaya

It also advises the public to moderate intake of fried and sugary foods, which are commonly consumed during iftar but may lead to spikes in blood sugar, dehydration, and fatigue.

Health officials emphasized hydration as a key priority, urging fasting individuals to drink sufficient water between iftar and suhoor.

Part of Broader Health Agenda

The initiative forms part of the Bangsamoro Government’s Enhanced 12-Point Priority Agenda, particularly Priority No. 7, which focuses on social protection and universal healthcare. The program seeks to ensure that health interventions remain inclusive, equitable, and accessible—especially during significant religious observances that affect daily routines and nutrition patterns.

The full 30-Day Ramadhan Meal Plan is available online and can be downloaded through the QR link provided by the Ministry of Health.

With Ramadhan being both a sacred spiritual journey and a physical test of endurance, officials hope the guide will help Bangsamoro communities observe the fast safely—nurturing both faith and health throughout the month.