Filipino Muslims gather in different parts of country for Eid”l Fitr celebration

Filipino Muslims gathered in different parts of the country to celebrate Eid’l Fitr or the end of Ramadan on Wednesday.

According to the Bangsamoro government, Muslims from different parts of the region gathered for congregational prayer to celebrate Eid’l Fitr.

The Muslim community performed in unison the Eid prayer inside the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City. Bangsamoro mufti Abdulrauf Guialani led the congregation.

In Tawi-Tawi and Maguindanao del Norte, several attendees reverted to Islam and performed their Shahada or the declaration of faith in one God Allah and His messenger.

In Kidapawan City, Cotabato, some Muslims who attended the gathering prayed for protection from the impact of the El Niño, according to a report on GTV’s Balitanghali.

Gatherings were also monitored in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi; Casiguran, Aurora; Laoag, Ilocos Norte; and Tagbilaran, Bohol.

In Quirino Grandstand in Manila, before starting the prayer and worship, attendees performed wudu, a cleansing ritual where Muslims wash their hands, mouth, nose, arms, face, ears, hair, and feet.

They also prepared a feast after the prayer and worship.

National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) chief  Sabuddin Abdurahim wished joy, harmony and hope for those who celebrate the occasion.

“Wishing everyone a heartfelt Eid Mubarak and may this Eid’l Fitr bring joy, harmony and renewed hope to you and your family,” he said in a statement.

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim called on Muslims to help the poor in observance of the occasion.

“Nawa’y mapanatili natin sa ating mga puso at isipan ang mga turo ng buwang ito katulad ng pagpapamahal sa kapwa at pagtulong sa nangangailangan,” he said.

(May we keep in our hearts and minds the teachings of this month such as loving others and helping those in need.)

“Nawa’y mas nagpalakas pa ang lumipas na buwan sa ating mga pananampalataya at nagpatibay pa ng ating pakikipagkapwa-tao,” he added.

(May the past month strengthen our faith and strengthen our relationship with other people.)

President Ferdinand ”Bongbong” Marcos Jr. urged the Muslim community to become ”shining examples” of humility, peace, and strength in the community.

In his Eid’l Fitr message, he reminded the Muslim community of the essence of the occasion.

“Truly, the Festival of Breaking the Fast marks not only the culmination of Ramadan, but also the rededication of one’s journey towards a more disciplined, dignified, and gracious life,” Marcos said.

“As you take to heart the insights from your devotion, may you become shining examples of humility, peace, and strength among our people as they overcome challenges and nurture their trust in the Almighty,” he added.

Eid’l Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. This is one of the most important occasions in Islam and is known as the festival of the breaking of the fast.—AOL, GMA Integrated News