Filipino Muslims gather to pray at the Blue Mosque to mark Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) Monday, Sept. 12, 2016 in suburban Taguig city, east of Manila, Philippines. Muslims around the world celebrate Eid’l-Adha by sacrificing animals to commemorate the prophet Ibrahim’s faith in being willing to sacrifice his son. AP Photo
Joining the observance of the Islamic holiday Eid’l Adha, senators on Monday called for unity and strength as they also urged everyone to make their own sacrifices.
Eid’l Adha is also called the “Sacrifice Feast.”
READ: Duterte’s Eid’l Adha message: Real change requires sacrifice
“Today, our Muslim community commemorates the sacrifice of Ibrahim when he demonstrated his strong faith and submission to the will of Allah. This meaningful feast reminds us all of the importance of solidarity and compassion for one another toward the achievement of our shared vision and goal. May the virtues of this solemn occasion continue to inspire the entire nation as we build an inclusive, just, and humane society,” Senator Leila da Lima said in a statement.
In the face of “tremendous pressures and problems,” De Lima called on everyone to “remain steadfast and keep our faith that everything happens according to a divine plan.”
“At all times, we are called to stand up for our Filipino values and to make our own sacrifice— to overcome any challenge with a moral courage, speak up for what is right even if it is unpopular, and put the welfare of the greater majority before our own,” she said.
“May our resolve remain firm, our principles untarnished, and our faith be strengthened as we strive to bequeath a better future for the generations to come,” De Lima added.
READ: Sept. 12 declared holiday for Eid’l Adha
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said the occasion is also an opportunity to join Muslim brothers and sisters in their reflection.
“For our Muslim brothers and sisters, Eid’l Adha is an occasion to reflect on the importance of sacrifice as a pillar of their faith. This is also an opportunity for us to join them in reflection. For the spirit of Eid’l Adha can also be found in our willingness to sacrifice for our fellowmen, and to strive for the aspirations that bring us together as one people,” Pangilinan said in a separate statement.
For her part, Senator Grace Poe expressed hope that the “sacrifices of our predecessors” would inspire everyone “to stand stronger together and work towards unifying our nation and pursuing the welfare of our people.”
“I wish our Muslim brothers and sisters a truly meaningful Eid’l Adha,” said Poe. IDL/rga