COTABATO CITY — The Bangsamoro Darul Ifta has released guidelines for the distribution of Zakat ul-Fitr for Ramadan 1447 AH (2026 CE), outlining requirements for the obligatory charity intended to purify fasting Muslims and support those in need.

Zakat al-Fitr is a mandatory charitable contribution for every Muslim—regardless of age or gender—based on the tradition narrated by Abdullah ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with them), which states that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prescribed Zakat ul-Fitr during Ramadan. Muslims are required to provide it on their own behalf and for all dependents under their care.

 

The primary form of Zakat ul-Fitr should be staple food of the local region. In the Bangsamoro, rice is recognized as the main staple, with the prescribed amount set at one sa‘—equivalent to approximately 2.5 kilograms of rice.

 

According to the Bangsamoro Darul Ifta, while the default practice is to give food, some scholars—including Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz, Abu Hanifa, al-Bukhari, and Ibn Taymiyyah—permit monetary payment if it serves the greater benefit of the poor. The cash value should be based on the current price of 2.5 kilograms of rice typically consumed by the person paying the zakat. 

For example:

 

- If rice costs P50 per kilogram, Zakat ul-Fitr would be P125.

- If rice costs P55 per kilogram, the amount would be P137.50.

- If rice costs P60 per kilogram, the contribution would be P150, and so on.

 

Regarding timing, Shafi’i and Hanafi scholars allow Zakat ul-Fitr to be paid starting from the beginning of Ramadan. However, it is recommended to distribute it one or two days before Eid ul-Fitr, and it must be completed before the Eid prayer.

 

Zakat al-Fitr serves to purify those who fast from idle talk and excess, provide sustenance for the poor and needy, and strengthen the spirit of solidarity and brotherhood among members of the Muslim community.