By SAMMY JULIAN
Manila News Bureau Chief
MANILA – President Benigno Aquino III has declared July 29, Tuesday, a regular holiday in observance of Eid’l Fitr.
In signing Proclamation No. 826, President Aquino said it was necessary to declare the holiday “to bring the religious and cultural significance of Eid’l Fit to the fore of the national consciousness.”
Eid’l Fitr is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
The holiday celebrates the conclusion of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting during the entire month of Ramadan.
“To promote cultural understanding and integration, the entire Filipino nation should have the full opportunity to join their Muslim brothers and sisters in the observance and celebration of Eid’l Fitr,” the proclamation read.
President Aquino had expressed solidarity with Muslim Filipinos ahead of the fasting month of Ramadan.
In his message, the President expressed hope that Ramadan would strengthen the faith of Muslim Filipinos and inspire them to deepen their commitment “to fulfilling our shared vision of lasting, equitable progress.”
“Our solidarity enables us to learn from each other and create a more unified and harmonious nation where citizens of various beliefs and creeds can work together to uphold peace and harmony,” Aquino said./PN
