DOT-6 joins Ilonggo Muslims in Eid’l Fitr

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — The Department of Tourism-6 is coordinating with the Muslim community living in this city in support of the Eid’l Fitr celebration from today to Sunday.

DOT-6 director Helen Catalbas said she has talked with the Ilonggo Muslims on how the department could help with their lined-up activities and come-up with some initiatives to invite more Muslim visitors to the city during this season.

“We support our Muslim brothers and sisters in celebrating Eid’l Fitr to show our deep appreciation and respect with their culture, beliefs, traditions, thanksgiving and sharing that they are practicing for a long time,” Catalbas said.

Prior to this, Catalbas said they have already initiated several talks with several malls and restaurants if they could offer and serve halal food for the Muslims who will be visiting the city.

She said several malls and restaurants that she approached were still deciding either to open up or not. “They were thinking because to be a certified halal restaurant should abide the international standard, which means that all foods to be served are allowed under Islamic dietary guidelines,” Catalbas said.

Eid’l Fitr (also known as Eid-al-Filt, Id-Ul-Fitr, Eid) is the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal signaling the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting and prayer.

Eid means festival and after a month-long sacrifice while Eid’l Fitr (festival of fast-breaking) is a period of merriment, sharing and forgiveness. (FREEMAN)