Filipino Muslims gather for Eid'l Fitr, end of Ramadan

Many Muslim Filipinos trooped early to mosques, Islamic centers, and parks on Saturday to mark Eid'l Fitr, the end of the month-long fasting or Ramadan.

At past 6 a.m., more than 1,500 Muslims were already at Quirino Grandstand at Rizal Park in Manila to take part in prayers and the program that was set to start at 7 a.m., the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 5 said, according to a report by Jhomer Apresto on Super Radyo dzBB.

The MPD deployed cops at the Quirino Grandstand to secure the area to ensure a peaceful gathering.

Meanwhile, Muslim Filipinos also gathered to mark Eid'l Fitr at the Grand Mosque in Marawi City and Plaza Independencia in Cebu City.

In Malolos, Bulacan, a simple celebration was held at a local mosque.

On Friday, some mosques already celebrated Eid'l Fitr based on the moon sighting in Mecca.

Filipinos celebrating Eid'l Fitr on Saturday followed the announcement of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos.

One of the most important occasions in Islam and known as the festival of the breaking of the fast, Eid’l Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Eid'l Fitr comes after fulfilling the teachings of Allah.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. earlier declared Friday, April 21, 2023, a regular holiday in observance of Eid'l Fitr.

"As you culminate the holy month of Ramadan by celebrating the Festival of the Breaking the Fast, may you sustain the values, teachings, and practices that you have wholeheartedly discerned and embodied throughout this time," Marcos said in a statement. 

"With our many faiths informing all our actions and bridging all our differences as a diverse set of peoples, we can transcend any challenges and still remain unified under the banners of camaraderie, respect, and love," he added.

Vice President Sara Duterte in her message for Eid'l Fitr asked for prayers for “harmony, unity, and success for each one." —with Sherylin Untalan/KG/VBL, GMA Integrated News