Duterte urges Muslims: Deepen role as instruments of peace

Muslims attend Eid al-Fitr prayers to mark the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Manila, Philippines on Wednesday, June 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday called on Filipino Muslims to deepen their role as an instrument of love and a partner in peace as the nation observed Eid al-Fitr, on the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.

In a message to the Islamic community, Mr. Duterte, whose government has struggled with peace-building efforts in Mindanao despite the signing of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) last year, called on Muslims to celebrate the holiday by “deepening their role as instruments of love, sacrifice, respect and selfless service.”

He described Eid al-Fitr as “a solemn occasion that binds the Muslim community.”

“The entire Filipino nation joins them as they offer prayers of praise and thanksgiving as well as demonstrate the virtues of Islamic faith in accordance with the teachings of Allah through the Quran,” he said.

“I wish you an inspiring and meaningful Eid al-Fitr,” he said.

The defense establishment also expressed solidarity with the Filipino Muslims.

In separate statements on Wednesday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., the Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff, vowed to help implement the BOL to ensure that the next generation enjoyed a “more prosperous Mindanao.”

Spirit of reconciliation

“In observance of Eid al-Fitr, we also celebrate the spirit of social healing, reconciliation and unity. Let us therefore continue to work together as one nation to ensure the implementation of the BOL,” Lorenzana said.

“This is our chance to make our present situation better,” he added.

Madrigal said the military remained committed to the implementation of the BOL, which “shall pave the way for a just and lasting peace and development in the South.”

“As we give reverence to the holy feast, we hope to further strengthen our relationship with the Muslim community as one Filipino nation in promoting lasting peace … and in fighting against violent extremism.” —DJ Yap and Jeannette I. Andrade