Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has urged Filipinos to embody compassion, humility, patience, and charity as a means to achieve national progress. In his recent Eid al-Fitr message, he conveyed optimism that the discipline and sacrifice practiced during Ramadan would continue to influence individuals and communities positively.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos emphasized that the joys achieved through sacrifice and the discipline in faith are not only beneficial to individuals but also to communities as a whole. He participated in the Eid al-Fitr celebration alongside Muslim Filipinos, highlighting Ramadan as a time for prayer, fasting, reflection, and generosity.

President Marcos encouraged the Filipino community to extend the values of compassion and unity beyond the Eid celebration, aiming to fortify communities and bridge gaps across different faiths. He stressed the importance of values that transcend personal interests to strengthen families, restore hope within communities, and build a nation based on kindness, responsibility, and solidarity.

He recognized the significant role of Muslim Filipinos in restoring dignity and resilience during challenging times, fostering hope, and promoting peace and trust within communities. President Marcos expressed his hope that Eid al-Fitr would provide comfort to those facing difficulties, renewed vigor to those in service, and happiness in every Filipino household.

The President also declared March 20 a regular holiday across the nation in observance of Eid al-Fitr through Proclamation 1189. However, the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta later announced that the crescent moon was not sighted, leading to the celebration of Eid al-Fitr on March 21.