MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte urged the Filipino Muslims to embrace the value of submission to a higher authority as he joins the Islamic world in observing Eid’l Adha or the Feast of the Sacrifice on Monday (August 12).
In his message released by Malacañang on Sunday, Duterte described the complete willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to offer the life of his beloved son in obedience to Allah’s divine command as “one of the most remarkable demonstrations of faith of all time”.
“This account not only teaches us the importance of personal sacrifice, but also inculcates in us the value of submission to a higher authority, even though, at times, our feelings and emotions compel us otherwise,” Duterte said.
“Truly, this feast’s narrative continues to resonate in our present time,” he added.
He also called on the Filipino people, including their Muslim brothers and sisters, “to lend a piece of ourselves to endeavors that redound to the common good and benefit the most number of people”.
“Let us, therefore, reflect on the lessons we can learn today to deepen our faith and strengthen our resolve to bring about a society that is worthy of Allah’s continued blessings and protection. May you have a meaningful observance! Eid Mubarak!” he added.
Last week, the Palace declared August 12 (Monday) a holiday throughout the country as recommended by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos to give the Muslims in the country “ample time” to celebrate Eid’l Adha.
Eid’l Adha is one of the two greatest most important holidays on the Muslim calendar. The other is Eid’l Fitr or “feast of breaking the fast” which marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan.