Rody’s Eid’l Adha message: Solidarity amid terror threats

President Duterte yesterday called for solidarity in his message for the Muslim feast Eid’l Adha as government troops continue to grapple with the threats posed by terrorists in Mindanao.

Duterte urged Filipinos to become “catalysts of unity and harmony” in their communities as they strive to achieve their collective aspirations for the country.

“With the adversities we face as a nation, let us bring forth the spirit of solidarity in our shared hope of attaining genuine and lasting peace,” Duterte said.

“May this occasion invigorate you to remain steadfast in our task of ensuring triumph against elements that perpetuate discord and violence,” he added.

The country’s more than 10 million Muslims are celebrating Eid’l Adha as government troops are preparing their final assault against Islamic Statelinked Maute terrorists who laid siege in Marawi City last May 23.

A total of 614 terrorists, 45 civilians and 133 government troopers have died since the clashes started, according to latest official data.

Duterte said Eid’l Adha, which commemorates Ibrahim’s readiness to obey Allah even if it meant sacrificing his son Ishmael, was an opportunity for Muslims to renew their faith and reaffirm their devotion to Islam.

“Ibrahim’s admirable act of obedience to the will of Allah is a reminder to us all of the value of sacrifice necessary in our lives,” Duterte said.

“It also exemplifies the necessity to surrender personal comfort for the greater good.”