Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Muslims around the country celebrated Eid’l Fitr on Wednesday, the end to Ramadan, Islam’s holiest month.
Throughout Ramadan, Muslims fast daily from dawn to dusk and even abstain from drinking — a discipline they believe will cleanse all sins. Eid’l Fitr marks the end of their month-long fasting and the start of a joyous occasion for believers.
The Philippines has legislated the celebration as a holiday under Republic Act 9177 of 2002. It is one of the first predominantly Christian countries to do so. The specific day is not predetermined because dates in the Muslim calendar are set according to the phases of the moon.
Following a lunar cycle, the Islamic calendar falls back 11 days every year, causing holiday dates to vary year-to-year. Some Muslims may be able to see the moon from the vantage point of their geographic location while others may not. Thus, Eid’l Fitr will be celebrated on different days in different parts of the world.
Muslims celebrate Eid’l Fitr in different ways, depending on their cultural background and traditional values. Generally, the celebration begins with an early morning congregational prayer and sermon at the mosque. After that, many visit with friends and family, share gifts and attend community celebrations.
Prayers at the Blue Mosque and Cultural Center in Taguig started before sunrise.
“Peace is not only for the Muslims — but peace in the community is for all inhabitants whether Muslims or non-Muslims,” Ustadz Abdulrafih Sayedy, Grand Imam of the mosque, told CNN Philippines.
In Davao City, Muslims gathered at the Agro Football Field. More than a thousand joined the activities throughout the day.
Some of them told CNN Philippines they wish fellow Muslims will continue to live the lessons of Islam — especially the discipline and patience it teaches. Some also wished for peace and forgiveness within one’s self.
Many condemned the violence that happened all over the world during Ramadan. In one of the deadliest incidents, at least 215 were killed in bombings in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad on July 3. At least 42 people were killed in suicide bombings in Turkey’s Ataturk Airport on June 28.
For many Muslims, Ramadan is a time for self-reflection, spiritual renewal, developing discipline, focusing on actions with purpose and giving back to humanity. It is also an opportunity to connect with loved ones over dinner as they break the fast with family and friends. During Eid’l Fitr, Muslims celebrate their patience, perseverance, and hard work.
Jadjurie Asura, Administrator of the Blue Mosque, called Eid’l Fitr their “day of victory.”
CNN Philippines’ Pia Bonalos and Joyce Ilas and CNN’s Slma Shelbayah contributed to this report.
