COTABATO CITY - The Darul Iftah of the Philippines announced on Thursday that the holy month of Ramadan among Muslims will start on Saturday, May 27.

Grand Mufti Abu Hureira Udasan made the announcement around 8:15 p.m. in the Cotabato City Hall after the new crescent moon was not sighted tonight.

In his message, Udasan called for unity following the attack of the Maute group in Marawi City.

Udasan said Ramadan activities will push through even though the whole Mindanao is under martial law.

However, authorities will continue to be strict in security measures, especially in implementing a "no ID, no entry" policy in the city following the declaration of martial law.

The local government will hold a forum, trade fair, and Grand Iftar after fasting ends.

Sheikh Abdulwakil Tanjilil, deputy Mufti for Western Mindanao and Palawan, reminded Muslims on their obligation to fast from sunrise to sunset and not engage in sexual activities.

Only those who are sick, the elderly, and women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or menstruating are exempted from fasting.

He also expressed his disappointment on Maute group, which launched an attack in Marawi a few days before the observation of the holy month of Ramadan.

Tanjilil labeled them as an "enemy of Islam" and said he hopes the clash will end soon. --With reports from Jasper Acosta and Leizel Lacastesantos, ABS-CBN News