President Benigno Aquino III. FILE PHOTO
President Benigno Aquino on Monday wished Filipino Moslems “lasting peace and meaningful reform” on the Feast of Ramadan.
In a one-page message posted on the Official Gazette (https://www.gov.ph/), Mr. Aquino led the nation in joining the local Moslem community in its celebration of Eid’l Fitr.
The President earlier issued Proclamation No. 455 declaring Aug. 20 a national holiday.
The proclamation was signed on Aug. 13 by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. in line with Republic Act No. 9177 that declares Eid’l Fitr, or Feast of Ramadan, a regular holiday throughout the country.
Eid’l Fitr is celebrated by the Moslem world for three days after the end of the month of fasting.
“The bedrock of a robust society is an empowered citizenry working together for the achievement of lasting peace and meaningful reform, and there is no doubt that our Muslim brothers and sisters contribute greatly to this foundation,” Mr. Aquino said in his message.
He said the “compassion, discipline and solidarity that you demonstrate every day are not just an affirmation of your strong faith in Allah and your commitment to Islam, but also a testament to your proactive participation in nation building.”
“Throughout our history, Islam has served as a guide for many Filipinos, offering pathways of discernment for individuals and communities of this faith.” Michael Ubac