MANILA, Philippines — Al Isra Wal Mi’raj, observed on Jan. 27 by the Muslim faithful, is not a national holiday, according to Malacañang.
“Not a national holiday, but a Muslim holiday only in BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) and other Muslim areas defined in the Muslim Code,” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said yesterday.
“Muslims in other areas where it is not observed as a holiday, such as NCR (National Capital Region) are excused from reporting for work,” he said.
President Marcos is hoping that the Islamic event would inspire persistence, amity and faith among Filipinos.
Al Isra Wal Mi’raj marks the night Allah took Prophet Muhammad on a journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and then to heaven.
Marcos said the event “symbolizes the steadfast devotion and spiritual resilience of Muslims in honoring Allah.”
Oman and Kuwait have reportedly declared holidays for this year’s observance of Al Isra Wal Mi’raj.