President Rodrigo Duterte wished for unity as he greeted Muslim Filipinos for their celebration of Eid’l Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice on Tuesday.
“I stand in solidarity with you in pursuing our shared goal of building a society that transcends religious, political and cultural barriers,” Duterte said in his Eid’l Adha message.
The president also expressed hope that the occasion would bring forth a renewed faith and spirituality for Muslim Filipinos.
“This significant occasion continues to serve as a testament to the unyielding faith of the Muslim community. Its narrative remains a fervent reminder to people that, even amidst life’s difficulties and challenges, our sacrifices have profound value and meaning,” he said.
Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo also called for unity.
“As we mark the Feast of Sacrifice this year, let us come together in solidarity, shared humanity and the common good,” she said.
The vice president also urged Muslim Filipinos to remain faithful and be courageous when met with challenges.
“As we have seen countless times during this pandemic, there are more things that bring us together than tear us apart – kindness, compassion and the genuine desire for a world where people of all faiths thrive and flourish under a banner of hope,” she said.
“Let us hold fast to these values as we journey towards the vision of a better normal. Though the road may be long, I know that the Filipino has the resolve to reach this aspiration,” she added.
Eid’l Adha is the second of the two great Muslim celebrations.
It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as ordered by Allah.
Duterte declared a holiday through Proclamation No. 1189, upon the recommendation of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos. John Ezekiel J. Hirro