Melo Villareal
Eid’l Fitr 2014: The end of Ramadan declared a National Holiday by Malacanang.
In an effort to promote solidarity and harmony among all Filipinos, President Aquino declared July 29 a national holiday in observance of Eid’l Fitr. Eid’l Fitr, also known as the Feast of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month of the year for Muslims.
Proclamation 826 End of Ramadan is a National Holiday
Muslims fast during the daylight hours for the entire month of Ramadan. Along with abstaining from food, Muslims cannot drink liquids, smoke, or engage in sexual relations during the daylight hours. In addition, Muslims participate in charitable activities and work to make peace with others during Ramadan.
They also work to strengthen family ties and eliminate bad habits such as gossiping. By avoiding food, drinks, and bad habits, participants can focus on their spiritual needs. This gives them the chance for spiritual renewal during Ramadan.
Mosque in Quiapo Manila
Eid’l Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Eid’l Fitr lasts for three days. President Aquino chose July 29 as the day of the holiday at the recommendation of Bai Yasmin Busran-Lao, the Secretary of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos. She consulted with Muslim religious leader before choosing July 29.
Fasting is forbidden during the three days of Eid’l Fitr. While fasting is forbidden, Eid’l Fitr is not just about food. It is also a time of unity for the entire Muslim community. The community comes together to share their blessings.
With the signing of Proclamation No. 826, which makes Eid’l Fitr a national holiday, that unity could extend past the Muslim community. Along with uniting the country, the president hopes the new holiday will highlight the religious and cultural significance of Eid’l Fitr and strengthen the faith of Muslims in the Philippines.
