Filipino Muslims celebrate Eid'l Fitr



BY CARMELA G. LAPEÑA, GMA NEWS 
After a month of strict fasting and pious activities, Muslims all over the world mark the end of Ramadan in a celebration called Eid'l Fitr. Eid'l Fitr is one of the most important occasions in Islam, as it comes after fulfilling the teachings of Allah.
 
According to the Islamic calendar, Eid'l Fitr falls on August 20 this year. In the Philippines, President Benigno Aquino III declared the date a holiday "to promote cultural understanding and integration."
 
While majority of Filipinos are Catholic, the holiday is intended to give the nation "the full opportunity to join their Muslim brothers and sisters in the observance and celebration of Eid'l Fitr," Proclamation No. 455 said. 
 
Maguindanaon Mac Macapandeg shared that Eid'l Fitr in Mindanao is a big celebration, much like Christmas. As it is in town fiestas, families invite their neighbors to share their food. Followers parade through the streets, greeting each other "Eid Mubarak," which means "Happy Eid."
 
Non-Muslims also greeted the community, sharing messages on social networking sites like Twitter.
 
"To my Muslim friends & all Muslim Filipinos, a joyous & glorious Eid Al Fitr & special wishes for peace and prosperity for Muslim Mindanao," tweeted Senator Bongbong Marcos. 
 
While Eid'l Fitr is a merry event, it begins with thanksgiving. All over the world, Muslim followers gather before dawn to offer prayers to Allah, according to a report on GMA News’ Balitanghali on Sunday.

 
Around the world, common Eid'l Fitr practices include visiting the cemetery to honor deceased relatives, as well as giving to the needy.
 
Although Eid'l Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, Muslims should continue practicing good deeds and following the teachings of Allah, the report said.
 
"Sa lahat ng Muslim, ay dapat magpakatotoong Muslim, kasi ang Muslim ay taong tumutupad sa pagiging Muslim. Ang ibig sabihin po ng Islam ay 'yung complete submission to the will of God," said Ali Macabato in a report on Balitanghali on Sunday. –KG, GMA News

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