Duterte urges Muslim community: Remain committed to shunning evil

- Advertisement -

PRESIDENT Duterte on Sunday urged members of the Muslim community to be the agents of change, contribute to the enlightenment of the country, and to remain committed to shunning evil and “breaking down barriers that divide and further estrange us from one another.”

In his message celebrating Eid’l Fitr or the end of Ramadan, Duterte expressed the hope that the month-long fasting and sacrifice would inspire the Muslim community to be the living examples of what is best in the Islamic faith.

“It is likewise my hope that your time in prayer has nourished your inner strength and fortitude to stay true to the inherent goodness of humanity as we shun the evils that permeate our society. As you further carry out your role as stewards of peace, love and understanding, I trust that you will remain committed in breaking down barriers that divide and further estrange us from one another,” he said.

- Advertisement -

“It is only in our everyday lives that our religious doctrines find meaningful relevance as it is through our actions and deeds that we attest to the benevolence and grace of the Creator. Harnessing the best of our capabilities and perspectives, let us be agents of change in our communities as we contribute to the enlightenment of our nation,” Duterte added.

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) announced on May 23 that Muslim holiday Eid’l Fitr or breaking of fast will be observed on May 24, instead of May 25, as no moon was sighted on May 22 in multiple areas in the country due to the inclement weather.

The President last week declared May 25, though Proclamation No. 944, as a regular holiday in observance of Eid’l Fitr or the end of Ramadan, following the recommendations of the NCMF.

NCFM Secretary Saidem Pangarungan said the celebration of the Eid’l Fitr this year is “unprecedented” as the usually joyous occasion was marked with closed Masjids or Muslims mosques, suspended public congregation prayers and regulated family gatherings due to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our steadfastness as a nation during this crisis also shows our commitment to national unity under the strong and benevolent leadership of our President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. I am proud of how all Muslim Filipinos had acted all throughout Ramadhan under lockdown,” he said.

Pangarungan said apart from spending the month-long Ramadan offering more supplications to Allah, reading the Qur’an, and reflect upon life’s travails, the Muslim community did its share in providing relief assistance to some 100,000 beneficiaries nationwide.

The donations benefited orphanages and schools, the indigents and lowly, stranded groups, and those who lost their livelihoods.

“The good hearts of Muslims shone brightly in easing the pain and suffering of those who were helpless and hungry. The pandemic exposed the weakness of most, but was also able to highlight one of the most important teachings in Islam, which is charity…Ramadan comes to an end and our sacrifices and reflections still deserve a solemn and profound celebration,” Pangarungan said.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said while it was a challenge to abstain from sharing meals and praying together throughout the blessed month of Ramadan, the government continues to urge the Muslim community to “continue to observe the guidelines of their respective community quarantines and observe social distancing during their celebration.”

Peace Adviser and National Task Force on COVID-19 chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. urged the Muslims to continue to pray for those in need, especially for the health and recovery of those affected by the coronavirus as well as the country in general.

“This year’s observance of the holy month of Ramadan has been filled with challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The health crisis has tested our resolve as individuals and as a people. Despite these trials, members of the Islamic faith have shown greater compassion, understanding, and solidarity, while observing the obligations and traditions in accordance with the fatwa of the Grand Mufti and the Darul Ifta,” Galvez said.

In previous years, Muslims in Metro Manila gathered at the Rizal Park for the traditional breaking of the fast on Eid’l Fitr. This was canceled this year and was instead replaced with holding of prayers inside their homes and breaking the fast with their family members.

The NCMF, in coordination with the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), also aired on Sunday morning an Eid prayer and Khutba officiated by Dr. Julkipli Wadi at the University of the Philippines’ Institute of Islamic Studies.

 

Author

- Advertisement -

Share post: