Sense of renewal, hope greet end of Ramadan

Muslim women attend the morning congregational prayer for Eid’l Fitr on Wednesday inside the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City. PHOTO FROM BANGSAMORO INFORMATION OFFICE

COTABATO CITY, BARMM, Philippines — Muslims around the country erupted in celebration of Eid’l Fitr on Wednesday, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan when they abstained from food and water during daytime.

Thousands gathered for congregational prayer in open spaces, in the spirit of community bound by their Islamic faith and devotion.

Here, the open ground of the Bangsamoro Government Center hosted thousands, among them Bangsamoro interim Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim, for the traditional Eid prayer presided by Sheik Abdulrauf Guialani, the Bangsamoro mufti.

READ: Muslims celebrate Eid’l Fitr with family reunions, treats and prayers

READ: Eid al-Fitr falls on April 10, Wednesday — Bangsamoro Darul Ifta

Sense of renewal

“This significant occasion symbolizes not only the conclusion of fasting but also embodies a sense of renewal, hope, and forgiveness for the entire community,” said Guialani, head of the region’s Darul Ifta or religious authority.

On Tuesday night, Guialani declared the end of Ramadan after a team from the Darul Ifta sighted the moon.

Speaking to the crowd after the prayer rites, Ebrahim reminded his fellow Muslims not to forget the less fortunate among them.

“Amid our celebrations, let us not forget those who are less fortunate among us. Let us open our hearts and hands to include them in our celebration, embodying the essence of Eid as a time of collective celebration and sharing,” Ebrahim said.

“Let this joyous occasion remind us of the importance of strengthening our family bonds and fostering peace, harmony, and development throughout the Bangsamoro and the country,” Ebrahim added.

Forge a harmonious society

In his Eid message, President Marcos called on the Muslim community to forge a harmonious society filled with love, prosperity and compassion, noting that the feast of the breaking of the fast is an opportunity to give thanks for the spiritual renewal and nourishment that come after the month-long prayer, sacrifice, and penance.

“Truly, the Festival of Breaking the Fast marks not only the culmination of Ramadan, but also the rededication of one’s journey towards a more disciplined, dignified, and gracious life,” the President said.

“As you take to heart the insights from your devotion, may you become shining examples of humility, peace, and strength among our people as they overcome challenges and nurture their trust in the Almighty,” he added.

“Let us strive to forge a society where love prevails over indifference, where faith outshines doubt and fear, and where oneness conquers division and discord. May the deepest desires of our hearts be granted,” said the President, who declared Wednesday a holiday to “allow the entire Filipino nation to join their Muslim brothers and sisters in peace and harmony.”

Lessons we learned

“Let us carry forward the lessons we learned during Ramadan—of patience, compassion, and humility. Let us strive to embody these virtues in our daily lives, not just during the holy month but throughout our lives,” Bangsamoro Parliament Speaker Pangalian Balindong said.

“Let us also remember those who are facing hardships within the Muslim ummah. Let us keep them in our thoughts and prayers, and extend a helping hand wherever possible. May Allah (swt) grant them ease and relief during these challenging times. Let us exemplify the true essence of Islam by showing kindness and compassion to all, regardless of race, religion, or creed,” Balindong added.

In Marawi City, Maulana Balangi, president of the group One Bangsa, prayed for solidarity for the besieged Palestinian people in Gaza.

“We extend our warmest greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters around the world. May this Eid bring you peace, happiness, and prosperity. Let us come together to embrace the spirit of love, unity, and compassion,” read a message from the Mindanaw Tripartite Youth Core, a solidarity group of Christian, Muslim and indigenous peoples.