Marcos to Pinoys: Look beyond desires, commit to values

MANILA, Philippines —  President Marcos yesterday called for unity and compassion among Filipinos as he joined Muslims in observing Eid’l Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice.

In his message, the President said the occasion serves as a reminder of “unwavering faith, complete submission to Allah’s will and trust in a purpose greater than ourselves.”

“It calls us to look beyond our personal desires and recognize that true fulfillment is found in obedience, humility and devotion,” he added.

“May this sacred observance inspire deeper reflection and renew our commitment to the values that bind us together as one people and one nation,” Marcos said.

Marcos has declared May 27 a regular holiday for Eid’l Adha, one of the two most important events in the Islamic calendar, after Eid’l Fitr or the Feast of Breaking the Fast.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has assured Muslims of the police force’s commitment to serve them with fairness, respect and inclusivity.

In Cotabato City, open-field congregational worship rites by Muslims in Central Mindanao were peaceful.

Preachers talked about the need for interfaith solidarity to boost efforts to address underdevelopment in local communities.

Police and soldiers, mostly Christians, secured different venues.

Muslim personnel of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division performed rites at a worship site near Camp Siongco in Barangay Awang in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.

Vice Gov. Marshall Sinsuat urged his constituents to continue supporting the police, military and the Bangsamoro government’s joint peacebuilding programs.

In Manila, Mayor Isko Moreno expressed solidarity with 6,000 Muslims who gathered at the Quirino Grandstand to celebrate the holiday. – Emmanuel Tupas, Andrew Ronquillo