Foster greater unity amid differences – Rody

President Duterte reiterated his call for unity in celebration of Eid al-Fitr yesterday and urged the people not to take for granted government efforts to attain lasting peace, particularly in Mindanao.

In his message, the President said the end of Ramadan is “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 amid our differences in faith and culture,” Duterte said.

“We collectively observe this event to praise Allah in thanksgiving for providing our nation the strength to endure the challenges of misguided ideologies, terrorism and violent extremism,” he added.

The President said he ”trusts that the sacrifice of Filipino-Muslims during Ramadan rekindled their faith and reawakened their sense of benevolence and empathy toward their fellowmen.”

“Together, let us engage in acts of charity as we steer our nation towards a more progressive and tolerant future,” Duterte said. ”May love and understanding prevail over our land as we work hard for the genuine transformation of the Philippines for every Filipino.”

Pass BBL

Vice President Leni Robredo, meanwhile, pressed anew for the immediate passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to achieve lasting peace in Mindanao.

“We hope the Bangsamoro Basic Law will soon be passed in a form that adequately reflects the hopes and dreams of our dear Bangsamoro brothers and sisters to end their longdrawn suffering and fulfill their desire for lasting peace,” Robredo said in her Eid al-Fitr message.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said the President would sign the proposed BBL in time for his third State of the Nation Address on July 23.

In Maguindanao, Eid prayers were held at the parade grounds of Camp Siongco, where Christian soldiers also served food for Muslim communities.

Clerics who led the worship rites appealed for support to the peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.