Duterte seeks peace as Muslims mark end of Ramadan

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte called for peace and healing as the Muslim community yesterday celebrated Eid’l Fitr to mark the end of Ramadan.

“In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, I join our Muslim brothers and sisters in the solemn observance of Eid’l Fitr,” said the President, who has claimed to be the first chief executive from Mindanao.

“May this event also inspire us to continue promoting peace, unity and goodwill among our fellow Filipinos,” Duterte said in a one-page statement.

Duterte urged the Muslim community to support the government in working for peace and development.

“Let us welcome a new hope that this Eid brings – for peace, prosperity, healing and strength as we build a progressive and brighter future for our people. I wish you a blessed and joyous celebration. Eid Mubarak!” he said.

Duterte gave the message a few days after visiting Cotabato to rally support of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao and local officials not to give sanctuary to terrorists belonging to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.  The BIFF recently attacked Datu Paglas in Maguindanao, which was quelled by military forces.

Duterte said Eid’l Fitr is more significant this year because the country continues to face the challenges brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.

“As you mark the end of a month-long journey of reflection, prayer and fasting, may Allah continue to instill in you the virtues of generosity and compassion for others,” he said. “This joyous occasion celebrating personal sacrifice and unity is made more relevant as the country makes a significant step closer to beating the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Meanwhile, Presidential Communications Operations Office chief Secretary Martin Andanar also extended his “greetings of peace, joy and harmony to our Muslim brothers and sisters in the Philippines and across the globe.”

“As the challenges brought by the COVID-19 prevented everyone from sharing meals and praying together throughout the blessed month of Ramadan, Allah’s constant love, affection and mercy have given you the strength and courage to obey all His commandments, while facing adversities,” he said.

Andanar noted that the current social distancing limitations and restrictions brought about by the quarantine classifications around the country have made it difficult to mark Eid. But he hopes the current situation will not deter fellow Muslims to boost their spiritual renewal.

“May your renewed spiritual attainment strengthen your commitment and dedication to the exemplary Islamic virtues, especially at this time of a global health crisis,” he said.

A single community

Vice President Leni Robredo joined the Muslim community yesterday in celebrating Eid’l Fitr, which marks the end of fasting during the month-long Ramadan.

“Today is more than a feast that marks the end of a period of fasting; it is a continued reminder that we are a single community,” she said in her statement.

With physical restrictions in place due to the pandemic, Robredo reminded Muslims to cherish the bonds formed during these trying times and remember that the spiritual ties that bind us tighten with every act of communal responsibility.

“I look forward to the day when we can reclaim our lives fully, and emerge stronger under a better normal for every Filipino,” she added. – Edith Regalado, Janvic Mateo, Emmanuel Tupas