Eid’l Fitr: A celebration of faith and community

For many Filipinos, Eid'l Fitr is just one of the national nonworking holidays they enjoy.

- MON B. IBRAHIM

For Muslims worldwide, this holiday marks the joyous culmination of a month-long fasting and is celebrated with gratitude, fulfillment, and community. The way it is celebrated differs only according to the traditions of the place.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, known as Sawm, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. This act of fasting is not merely a dawn till dusk abstention from food, drink, and other worldly pleasures but a profound spiritual exercise that cultivates empathy, self-discipline, and gratitude. This act of self-discipline is intended to purify the soul, strengthen faith, and develop empathy for those less fortunate.

This sacred observance of Ramadhan powerfully reminds all faithful of their collective identity as Muslims and their shared responsibility to uphold the principles of faith and compassion.

During the whole month of fasting, they are reminded of the blessings they enjoy and the importance of sharing their abundance with those less fortunate.

Every Muslim strives to alleviate suffering through charity and community service and promote social justice.