Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 24) — As Eid’l Fitr, or the end of Islam’s holiest month Ramadan approaches, Muslims are encouraged to exemplify the virtues of Islamic faith.
“As you celebrate the Breaking of the Fast, may the clarity of thought and wisdom that you have attained from this undertaking inspire you to be the best living examples of what is best in the Islamic faith,” said President Rodrigo Duterte in a statement.
Eid’l Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, where Muslims fast every day from dusk ‘til dawn for an entire month to cleanse themselves of sin. It is one of the most important days for the followers of Islam, with the entire Muslim community is celebrating it together.
However, this year, Muslims are compelled to observe both events physically apart with quarantine restrictions in place because of the coronavirus.
READ: Filipino Muslims to celebrate Eid’l Fitr differently amid pandemic
“Despite this, we see the many ways that Eid’l Fitr and the past holy month of Ramadan strengthened the linkages among Muslim Filipinos,” said Vice President Leni Robredo.
Robredo said this is evident in friends reaching out to each other online during fasting, Muslim business owners showing their staff compassion, and leaders who advocate peace and place their constituents at the center of their agenda.
All in all, Muslims “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,” observed presidential peace adviser and COVID-19 response chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr.
Meanwhile, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar hoped their “renewed spiritual attainment” will strengthen their “commitment to the exemplary Islamic virtues, especially at this time when we continue to face the challenges and uncertainty brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Galvez also asked Muslims to continue helping those who are most in need and pray for the nation’s recovery and health.
To date, the Philippines has 13,777 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Some 863 have died from the viral disease, while 3,177 have gotten well.
