The photo shows those who worked together to organize the daily iftar, supported by Mamalinta, for the residents of Datalblao during the recent Ramadan fasting season. (Contributed Photo)
COLUMBIO, Sultan Kudarat — In Barangay Datalblao, the spirit of Ramadan came alive not just in prayer and fasting, but in shared meals and collective effort.
For 30 days—from February 19 to March 21—Muslim residents gathered at dusk for iftar, the meal that breaks the daily fast. Behind the nightly preparations was a small team of 12 community members who cooked and served food for their neighbors observing the holy month.
The effort was supported by Sagittarius Mines Incorporated (SMI), which provided a daily food budget in coordination with barangay leaders.
“Mula pagsimula ng Ramadhan, araw-araw kaming nagluluto gamit ang daily budget na galing sa SMI,” said Monera Baron, one of the volunteers. “Siniguro naming makakain ang lahat ng nag-aayuno, lalo na ang mga nangangailangan.”
Iftar holds special meaning for Muslims, marking the end of a day of fasting from dawn to sunset. During Ramadan, many also focus on prayer, reflection, and rebuilding relationships within the community.
For Barangay Chair Datu Zahir Mamalinta, the initiative became more than just food assistance—it was a shared act of service.
“Wagas ang aming pasasalamat sa SMI… Nagkakaisa kami sa pagpapaabot ng serbisyo sa publiko,” he said.
The volunteer cooks also received cash assistance from SMI at the end of the initiative. Beyond Datalblao, SMI continues to support community programs in nearby areas, including Columbio, Tampakan, Malungon, and Kiblawan, often in partnership with local leaders.
In Datalblao, however, the impact of the Ramadan outreach was felt most in the simple, everyday moments—families gathering at sunset, meals shared, and a community coming together in faith and generosity.
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