January 27 declared Muslim holiday for Isra Wal Mi’raj

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has declared January 27, Monday, as a Muslim holiday to mark Isra Wal Mi’raj, the Prophet Muhammad’s Night Journey and Ascension.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the holiday will be observed in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and other areas covered by the Muslim Code.

“[This is] not a national holiday, but a Muslim holiday only in BARMM and other Muslim areas defined in the Muslim Code,” Bersamin said.

"Muslims in other areas where it is not observed as a holiday such as [the National Capital Region] are excused from reporting for work,” he added.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday joined the Muslim Filipino community in observing Al Isra Wal Mi’raj.

“As you venerate this historic miracle through supplication and prayer, may its essence inspire among the Muslim faithful the value of perseverance through hardship and grief,” Marcos said.

“Let this observance also serve as a reminder that success is the reward of diligence and amity, and that sacrifice, persistence, and faith can guide us towards realizing our shared purpose in building a peaceful and progressive nation for all,” he added.

He described Al Isra Wal Mi’raj, the Prophet Muhammad’s Night Journey and Ascension, as a symbol of spiritual resilience and devotion to Allah.

Isra Wal Mi’raj commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension to heaven.