Muslims pray for peace as Ramadan ends

Muslim communities in Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue cities gathered yesterday morning for group prayer in observance of Eid’l Fitr or Feast of Breaking the Fast.

Eid’l Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, Islam’s holy month dedicated to fasting and prayers. This annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

Around 300 Muslim believers from three communities in Lapu-Lapu City gathered in the Basak Gym instead of their mosque in order to use a larger space.

There are several mosques in barangays Basak and Pajac but it could not accommodate all of them for their joint observance of the Eid’l Fitr.

Basak barangay chairman Isabselo Darnayla said he has always accommodated the Eid’l Fitr gathering.

In Mandaue City, Muslims gathered at the mosque in barangay Mantuyong.

Najjib Andang, president of the Mandaue Islamic Community, said they prayed for peace, good health and prosperity during the Ramadan.

Hadji Faiz Daligdig, president of the Cebu Muslim Federation said that they are in solidarity with Cebuanos for peace and order.

“In our meetings, we also discuss issues like the recent bombings in Mindanao.

“From the start, we have made a commitment to local leaders and the police to coordinate with them regarding bad elements be they Christians or Muslims,” said Daligdig.

Muslim women wore colorful and elegant silk and embroidered clothes. Children also came dressed in their best traditional attire.