PH Consulate Hosts Unity Iftar in New York, Strengthening Community and Interfaith Ties

Consul General Senen T. Mangalile (front row, fifth from right), Assemblymember Steven Raga (sixth from right), officers of the Philippine Consulate General in New York, with members of the Filipino community and interfaith partners and guests. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)

NEW YORK, 07 March 2025 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with Kinding Sindaw Heritage Foundation, Inc., held its annual Unity Iftar on 06 March 2025 at the Philippine Center, bringing together members of the Filipino Muslim community, interfaith leaders, and government representatives for an evening of spiritual reflection, solidarity, and fellowship.

In his remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile underscored the importance of fostering meaningful connections through shared traditions. “As we break bread together this evening, let this gathering be a reminder that there is more that unites us than that which divides us, that respect is the foundation of every strong community, and that in sharing our traditions, we make room for deeper connections and a greater appreciation of one another,” he stated​. He reaffirmed the Philippine Consulate’s commitment to promoting dialogue and understanding, emphasizing that unity is built not through sameness but through embracing differences with openness and respect.

New York State Assemblymembers Steven Raga and Harvey Epstein delivered the Unity Response, recognizing the significance of Ramadan and the spirit of community it fosters. Assemblymember Raga emphasized the diversity of cultures and faiths in both the Philippines and New York, stating that Ramadan is a time for “self-reflection, nearness to God, and strengthening of faith.” He expressed appreciation for the opportunity to join the gathering and extended his well wishes to those observing the holy month. Assemblymember Epstein likewise acknowledged the importance of the occasion and conveyed his greetings for a meaningful Ramadan.

Consul General Mangalile (left) underscores the significance of interfaith gatherings in a city as diverse as New York, where different cultures and religions coexist, while New York State Assemblymembers Raga and Epstein (right) express their support for the Filipino Muslim community during this spiritual journey. (Photos by Sherlyn Roxas)

The program included a recitation of the Holy Quran and reflections on the significance of Ramadan as a time of self-discipline, devotion, and generosity. As the Adhan (Call to Prayer) was recited, guests observed the breaking of the fast with dates and water, followed by the Maghrib, an Islamic prayer that takes place after sunset.

Six-year-old Zulqarnain Saputra (left) recites a passage from the Holy Quran, while Ms. Potri Ranka Manis Queano Nur (right) delivers the closing remarks, thanking the organizers and attendees of this year’s Unity Iftar. (Photos by Sherlyn Roxas)

Ms. Potri Ranka Manis Queano Nur of Kinding Sindaw expressed her gratitude to the attendees, partners, and volunteers who made the gathering possible. END

Guests partake of the evening’s meal following the program, sharing traditional halal dishes in the spirit of Ramadan. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)