President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday called for unity across the country as he thanked the Muslim community for supporting his administration’s programs, particularly the ongoing peace process in Mindanao, in his message a day for today’s celebration of the Eid’l Adha.
“It is my dream to see our people, regardless of beliefs, join hands in building a united country for our children and the next generation. Let this celebration stand as a reminder that real change requires the sacrifice of our personal interests in favor of the common good of our citizens. Together, we can achieve progress, prosperity and harmony for all,” the President said.
Duterte said the occasion should remind Filipinos of the virtues that strengthen the very foundation of Islam.
“I join you in commemorating the ultimate obedience and trust of Ibrahim when he submits to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, according to the will of Allah. This occasion truly invigorates our common aspirations and rekindles the true significance of our faith,” he said.
The Eid’l Adha or the “Feast of Sacrifice” is an important event for Muslims across the world.
For his part, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri said awareness and recognition of our diversity is the first step in eliminating prejudice and bigotry as he urged all Filipinos to commemorate Eid’l Adha.
Muslim Filipinos, which constitute 10 percent of the country’s population, play a very critical role in the political, social and economic scene, Zubiri said.