15/03/2026
MYROi Grand Iftar Calls for Muslim Ummah Unity, Stronger Youth Leadership globally
COTABATO CITY — March 14, 2026 — Members of the Muslim Youth Religious Organization, Incorporated (MYROi) gathered in an atmosphere of faith, reflection, and brotherhood during the MYROi Grand Iftar held Saturday at the Sultan Room of Pagana in this city.
The annual gathering brought together MYROi leaders, members, and invited guests for a meaningful evening of spiritual reflection and fellowship as they broke their fast together during the holy month of Ramadan.
In his opening message, MYROi President Engr. Mansory Abdulatif emphasized the importance of sustaining the organization’s tradition of holding a Grand Iftar every Ramadan as a way of strengthening unity among members.
“This Grand Iftar has become our tradition every Ramadan. We are keeping it as a yearly event for us to bind with each other and renew our commitment as MYROi brothers and sisters,” Abdulatif said.
“We hope that the barakah of this holy month will continue to keep us together as Myronians, carrying our role as part of the Muslim Ummah to lead by example in living out the teachings of Islam,” he added.
The program also featured inspiring messages from members of the MYROi Board of Trustees who shared reflections on leadership and unity within the Muslim community.
Board of Trustee Johnny Balawag highlighted the enduring responsibility of youth leadership, stressing that genuine leadership should transcend time and position.
“As a youth leader with good leadership, there should be no expiration,” Balawag said, emphasizing that leadership rooted in service and integrity continues even beyond formal roles.
He also cautioned that unnecessary leadership exchanges can sometimes create factions and divisions, reminding participants that Islam discourages disunity among the Muslim Ummah.
Meanwhile, fellow Board of Trustee Dr. Norodin Salam reiterated the Islamic principle of supporting leaders who work sincerely for the welfare of the organization and the community.
“As Muslims, we are encouraged to follow our leaders, especially when their actions are directed toward the good and welfare of the organization,” Salam said.
Adding to the discussion, MYROi Member Director Omar Patadon underscored the evolving role of Muslim leadership in today’s rapidly changing world. He noted that modern leaders must be critical thinkers and open to embracing new ideas.
“Good Muslim leaders today must be critical and open to the contributions of the youth,” Patadon said.
“The organization needs young people with technical skills who can help advance MYROi’s goals and strengthen its programs,” he added.
A highlight of the event was the lecture delivered by guest speaker Sheikh Habib Usman, who spoke on the theme “The Current Status of the Muslim Ummah.”
In his talk, Sheikh Usman underscored the central role of the Kalima, the declaration of faith in Islam — “La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam)” — which means “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” He explained that this testimony forms the foundation of Islamic identity and unites Muslims across the world as one Ummah.
Highlighting the challenges faced by Muslims around the globe, the speaker emphasized that the bond of faith transcends differences in ethnicity, nationality, social status, political affiliations, and cultural backgrounds. Regardless of these distinctions, Muslims who sincerely profess the Kalima share a profound spiritual connection as brothers and sisters in Islam.
He further called on Muslims to strengthen solidarity, mutual respect, and compassion within the global Muslim community, reminding participants that unity remains a core principle in Islam.
According to Sheikh Usman, divisions rooted in politics, ideology, or personal interests should not weaken the shared responsibility of Muslims to uphold justice, promote peace, and strengthen their collective faith.
The MYROi Grand Iftar concluded with prayers and fellowship, leaving participants inspired to deepen their commitment to faith, unity, and service to the Muslim community.
For many attendees, the gathering was not only a moment to break the fast but also a meaningful opportunity to renew friendships, strengthen brotherhood, and reaffirm their shared mission of promoting Islamic values among the youth and the wider community.
(MYROi Information, Media, and Public Affairs Committee)
