(We yield this space to messages of President Rodrigo Duterte marking the Ninoy Aquino Day and Eid’l Adha on the same date, Aug. 21, 2018, due to their significance. – Ed.)
I join the entire nation in celebrating Ninoy Aquino Day.
More than three decades ago, Benigno S. Aquino Jr. died while fighting to restore peace and democracy in the Philippines. His profound love of country has inspired a revolution that altered the course of our nation’s history and gave birth to the freedoms we enjoy today.
Let us take this opportunity to reflect on his sacrifice as we honor the courage and patriotism that Ninoy demonstrated during his struggle. May his dedication to his cause serve as a guidepost for our current leaders in government as they advance the welfare of our people, especially the oppressed and marginalized.
In this time of real and lasting change, we need more citizens like him so we can steer our country towards the direction where a brighter and better future awaits us all. This can only be achieved if we work together to institute meaningful reforms that will put an end to the many social ills that have obstructed our path towards becoming a mature and stable democracy.
I wish you a happy and meaningful occasion.
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In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, I join our Muslim brothers and sisters in their commemoration of Eid’l Adha.
This sacred feast serves as a reminder of the fulfillment that is found in sacrifice. Ibrahim’s faithfulness taught us the way towards a strong spiritual foundation that is guided by our shared values of compassion, selflessness and hope.
Today, we do not only commemorate the admirable act of being obedient to one’s God, but also celebrate the significance of faith in our pursuit of meaningful transformation. As Muslims all over the world honor this remarkable sacrifice, I hope that you will be more inspired to embody courage and conviction in all of the challenges we face as a nation.
May this celebration bind us together in our common hope of building diverse communities that is rooted in mutual respect and peace. I trust that in the midst of our religious traditions, we will find the strength and inspiration to live a life that transcends social, political and cultural barriers.
Together, let us foster greater unity and harmony across people of various faiths.
