PRRD calls for unity amid differences as Ramadan ends
In observance of Eid'l Fitr or the end of the Ramadan feast, President Duterte has called for national unity and acts of charity despite the people’s differences in faith and culture.
The President recognized Eid’l Fitr as a time to reflect on the country's peace initiatives and take further steps to promote a “progressive and tolerant” future.
"This is in an opportune time to reflect on the progress we have made to achieve long-lasting peace across the country, especially in Mindanao. May this revered festival inspire us all to foster greater unity amidst our differences in faith and culture,” Duterte said in a message on Eid'l Fitr celebration.
"Together, let us engage in acts of charity as we steer our nation towards a more progressive and tolerant future,” and hopes "love and understanding" would prevail in the country amid efforts toward the genuine transformation of the Philippines.
In the same message, Duterte said he joins Filipino Muslims who marked the end of Ramadan and reaffirmed their commitment to selfpurification and jubilation.
He said the nation collectively observes such event "to praise Allah in thanksgiving for providing our nation the strength to endure the challenges of misguided ideologies, terrorism and violent extremism."
"I trust that the sacrifice of Muslim Filipinos during their month-long fasting has rekindled their faith and reawakened their sense of benevolence and empathy towards their fellowmen," he said.
Malacañang earlier issued Proclamation No. 514 declaring June 15, Friday, a regular holiday in observance of the Eid'l Fitr.
The holiday declaration was issued upon the recommendation of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos "to bring the religious and culture significance of the Eid'l Fitr to the fore of national consciousness."
Peace Thousands gathered at the Rizal Park for the morning prayer and to bond with fellow muslims over food to celebrate the joyous occasion. Mohammad Sappari is one of them. For this year, his only wish is peace “so that Muslims will no longer be tagged as terrorists,” he said in Filipino.
Like Mohammad, Simak Omar defended Islam as a religion of peace.
"Islam is a religion, which always supports all humanity, gives charity to all people not only for the Muslims," said Omar who flew to the Philippines from Sudan to study.
Rushdi Rogong, whose family was displaced by the Marawisiege has this to say for those who use Islam to justify violence: “For our brothers waging war in the name of Islam, they are not muslims. Islam is peaceloving people. They do not destroy homes and the children’s future.”
For his part, Mohammad Mali believes passing the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law will resolve Mindanao conflicts.
"I hope all our revolutionary leaders will come together as one- the MNLF of Chairman Nur Misuari and the MILF under Haji Murad. Even the religious and the Sultanate. Let’s give President Duterte a chance and perhaps the BBL will at last bring peace to Mindanao,” Mali told Manila Bulletin. (With reports from Ria Fernandez and Hans Amancio)