President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. encouraged Filipino Muslims to observe Isra Wal Mi’raj with courage and optimism for the country’s future.
“Let this occasion imbue us with increased courage and optimism as we collectively face and transform the future of our nation to be more peaceful, inclusive, and progressive for all Filipinos to enjoy,” President Marcos said in a statement.
In Islamic tradition, Isra Wal Mi’raj commemorates the miraculous journey of Prophet Muhammad, ascending to the seven heavens and embarking on a divine voyage from Mecca to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.
Recognizing the significance of this event in Islam, President Marcos emphasized the magnificence and omnipotence of Allah, evident in the revelation as he joined the observance of the celebration.
“More than that, the narrative also magnifies the glory and might of Allah who revealed, during this difficult and perilous journey, the virtue of pursuing righteousness and the incomparable prize that await us when we remain true and devoted to our faith and our convictions,” the President said.
President Marcos further stressed the significance of drawing strength from such events during trying times.
“Through these, we are forged to become not only living witnesses of our faith, but also Allah’s agents of transformation and renewal here on Earth,” he said.
Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte also sent her well wishes to her fellow Mindanaoans and other Muslim Filipinos for this occasion.
“[L]et us offer our night prayers, seeking happiness and tranquility. The journey of Prophet Muhammad serves as a powerful reminder that despite the diversity in our lives, our faith and dedication unite us,” she said in her statement.
“To all our Muslim brothers and sisters, let us seize this opportunity to pray for those who seek blessings from Allah, hoping for a life filled with divine grace. May this auspicious day bring forth peace and prosperity for all,” the vice president added.
Malacañang has earlier declared Feb. 8, Thursday, a holiday in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and other Muslim-majority areas in observance of the Al-Isra’ Wal Mi’raj.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said this covers the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur, as well as the cities of Cotabato, Iligan, Marawi, Pagadian, and Zamboanga.
Editor’s Note: This story has been update to include the statement of Vice President Sara Duterte.