Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte wipes (C) his face while walking to the closing and handover ceremony for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Vientiane on September 8, 2016. AFP PHOTO / ROSLAN RAHMAN
President Rodrigo Duterte greeted the Filipino Muslim community for the celebration of the Islamic holiday of Eid’l Adha on Monday, expressing gratitude for their support of the government and the peace process.
READ: Sept. 12 declared holiday for Eid’l Adha
“This occasion reminds us of the virtues that strengthen the very foundation of Islam. I join you in commemorating the ultimate obedience and trust of Ibrahim when he submits to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, according to the will of Allah. This occasion truly invigorates our common aspirations and rekindles the true significance of our faith,” Duterte said in his message on Sunday.
Duterte, the first President from Mindanao, said he was hopeful that Filipinos, regardless of beliefs, would “join hands in building a united country for our children and the next generation.”
“I deeply appreciate your support to this government and its programs on the ongoing peace process, especially in our efforts to realize equitable and sustainable development in Mindanao,” he said.
“Let this celebration stand as a reminder that real change requires the sacrifice of our personal interests in favor of the common good of our citizens. Together, we can achieve progress, prosperity and harmony for all,” Duterte added.
Sept. 12 was declared a national holiday in observance of Eid’l Adha, as directed under Republic Act 9849.
Eid’l Adha is the tenth day in the month of Hajj or Islamic Pilgrimage to Mecca where Muslims pay homage to Abraham’s supreme act of sacrifice, signifying mankind’s obedience to God. JE/rga
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