Rody asks Muslims: Set aside interests

MANILA, Philippines – President Duterte yesterday urged Muslims to set aside personal interests for the common good of the nation as he thanked them for supporting the peace process.

In his first message for the Muslim holiday Eid’l Adha as president, Duterte said Filipinos must unite to achieve progress, prosperity and harmony for all.

“Let this celebration stand as a reminder that real change requires the sacrifice of our personal interest in favor of the common good of our citizens,” Duterte said.

“I deeply appreciate your support to this government and its programs on the ongoing peace process, especially in our efforts to realize equitable and sustainable development in Mindanao. 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,” he added.

The President said the occasion reminds Filipinos of virtues that strengthen the foundation of Islam and “invigorate common aspirations.”

Eid’l Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to Allah, the Arabic word for God.

‘Happy Eid’l Adha’

Meanwhile, troops in Sulu are greeting all Muslims and Christians a “Happy Eid’l Adha,” as Muslims around the world gather to celebrate in prayer.

Brig. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, chief of Joint Task Force Sulu (JTFS), extended the troops’ message of solidarity during yesterday’s mass offering and blessing of a new hospital at Camp Bautista.

“We extend our sincere desire for a peaceful Eid’l Adha and we again appeal to the people of Sulu for their continued cooperation to ensure the safety of all members of the community,” Dela Vega said. – With Cecille Suerte Felipe