Marcos on Eid’l Adha: Courage at comfort’s expense

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos called on Filipinos yesterday to be courageous even at the expense of comfort and security amid challenges.

In his message on the observance of Eid’l Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, Marcos said the sacred occasion offers the nation a unique opportunity to reflect on the life and tale of Ibrahim, whose steadfast faith and unconditional love for Allah have become the core virtues of Islamic teaching.

“As we understand the significance of this commemoration, we feel deep within ourselves that, in nurturing our relationship with others and the Almighty, we are strengthened by our past and fueled with lessons to face tomorrow with grit and resilience,” he said.

“I earnestly pray that we may also have what it takes to be courageous even at the expense of our comfort and security,” Marcos said.

Through dependence on God and on life of prayer, the President expressed hope that Filipinos will have the clarity of mind and kindness of heart to overcome the trials that prevent them from achieving true peace.

“Let us continue to radiate goodness to those around us, confident that – with the right intention and conduct – the true, the good and the beautiful will prosper now and in the years to come,” Marcos added.

In her Instagram account, First Lady Liza Marcos also joined Filipino Muslims all over the world in celebrating the Islamic holiday.

She said Eid’l Adha seeks to instill in everyone a sense of service and the corresponding sacrifices it entails toward a firmer faith, a stronger relationship with family and a united community.

Vice President Sara Duterte yesterday called on the Muslim community to pray for the country’s resilience, peace and safety against calamities and tragedies.

Duterte stressed the importance of spreading the spirit of Eid’l Adha amid many Filipinos needing goodwill, charity and concern.

“On this day, let us remember the meaning of sacrifice, gratitude and humility that we should live. Let us use this opportunity to pray that the Philippines will always be strong, peaceful and safe from calamities and tragedies,” Duterte said.

The solidarity of Filipinos in celebrating the feast of sacrifice is a sign of “our relationship as a nation that is further strengthened by our respect, acceptance and love for each other despite different words, religions or beliefs,” Duterte added.

Under Republic Act 9849 enacted in 2009, the 10th day of Zhul Hijja, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, is declared a national holiday for the observance of Eid’l Adha.

Eid’l Adha, whose date is movable, is the 10th day in the month of Hajj or Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca wherein Muslims pay homage to Abraham’s supreme act of sacrifice and signifies mankind’s obedience to God, the law said.

It is a major holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide for three to four days, with most of them attending the special prayers at major mosques and Islamic centers throughout the world. It is also the second of two main Islamic holidays, the first being Eid’l Fitr.

Marcos has declared June 17 as a regular holiday in observance of Eid’l Adha. — Neil Jayson Servallos