Busting the Myths: What Every Pinoy Should Really Know About Ramadan

Curious about Ramadan but worried you might say the wrong thing to your Muslim officemate or neighbor? Here’s a fun, no-nonsense guide busting common misconceptions—tailored for us Pinoys living in our super diverse, food-loving country.

In a country where Christmas starts in September, Holy Week means no meat Fridays, and every fiesta revolves around lechon and karaoke, it’s easy to think Ramadan is just “that Muslim fasting month.” But with millions of Filipino Muslims (our Moro brothers and sisters) observing it every year—plus growing Muslim communities in Quezon City, Manila, Cebu, and Davao—many of us non-Muslims end up with questions or awkward moments. “Bakit sila hindi kumakain buong araw?” or “Pwede ba akong mag-offer ng merienda?”

Myth #1: Ramadan is ONLY about not eating or drinking all day

Many Pinoys assume it’s basically a month-long diet challenge or a test of willpower—like extreme intermittent fasting on steroids. Sure, the core rule is no food, drink (not even water), smoking, or intimacy from dawn (fajr) to sunset (maghrib). But that’s just the surface.

The real goal? Building empathy, self-discipline, and closeness to God (Allah). Muslims fast to feel what the hungry and poor go through every day—not just during Ramadan. It’s about controlling desires, avoiding gossip, anger, or bad habits, and focusing on prayer, Quran reading, and good deeds.

Pinoy parallel: Think of it like Lent on steroids, but with extra emphasis on charity and reflection. Just as we Pinoys give up vices or do good during Holy Week to grow spiritually, Ramadan is a full-month spiritual reset.

Myth #2: Fasting is harmful to your health (or Muslims are starving themselves)

“Grabe, 12–15 hours walang kain? Delikado ‘yan ah!” We’ve all heard (or thought) this. But studies show intermittent fasting like this can have health benefits when done right—better metabolism, mental clarity, even detoxification.

Muslims aren’t “starving.” They eat a big pre-dawn meal called suhoor (like our almusal but heartier) and break the fast at sunset with iftar—often starting with dates and water, then a feast. Many Pinoys in mixed offices notice Muslim colleagues actually become more energetic or focused during the day!

And exemptions exist: pregnant women, the sick, elderly, travelers, kids, or menstruating women don’t have to fast—they can make it up later or feed the needy instead. It’s practical and compassionate.

Myth #3: You can’t eat, drink, or even brush your teeth in front of a fasting Muslim

This one causes a lot of over-the-top politeness in Pinoy workplaces and schools. Some non-Muslims hide their baon or skip lunch meetings entirely.

Truth: It’s thoughtful to be considerate (like not flaunting food during Lent out of respect), but Muslims don’t expect you to starve yourself. Many say, “Kain lang kayo, okay lang!” Swallowing saliva, brushing teeth (without swallowing toothpaste), or accidental bites don’t break the fast.

The bigger “sin” during Ramadan? Gossip, lying, or being rude—those actually “break” the spiritual purpose more than a sip of water by mistake.

Myth #4: All Muslims fast the exact same way, no exceptions

Not every Muslim fasts identically. Some might struggle more in hot Philippine summers (fasts can hit 14+ hours), while others in cooler places have shorter days. Cultural twists exist too—in Mindanao, iftar might feature exotic dishes like pianggang manok or pastil, while in Manila it could mix with halo-halo vibes post-sunset.

Plus, not every Muslim is required to fast—health comes first. It’s not a competition; it’s personal devotion.

Myth #5: Non-Muslims can’t join in or support Ramadan at all

Wrong! Many Pinoys show solidarity by saying “Ramadan Mubarak!” (Happy Ramadan) or “Ramadan Kareem!” to Muslim friends. In diverse areas like Quiapo or Marawi, interfaith iftars happen where everyone shares food after sunset. Some even volunteer for charity drives—Ramadan doubles down on zakat (giving), much like our bayanihan spirit.

Practical tips for Pinoys:

* In mixed offices: Offer to cover tasks if a colleague seems tired, but don’t assume they’re weak.

* In schools: Be mindful during group activities, but no need to cancel snacks.

* At home/neighborhood: Invite Muslim neighbors for iftar or just wish them well—it builds bridges in our already warm Pinoy culture.