‘Time of reflection, devotion and unity’ –

CEBU, Philippines — Eid'l Adha is not only a time for the Muslims, but also an opportunity for the rest to reflect on shared values with them, acting Cebu City Mayor Raymond Garcia said ahead of the regular holiday for the Muslim community’s feast of sacrifice today, June 17.

Malacañang, through Proclamation No. 579, declared a regular holiday in the country today in observance of Eid’l Adha or the feast of sacrifice for the Muslim community. Such occasion is “one of the two greatest feasts of Islam”.

Republic Act 9849 declared the 10th day of Zhul Hija, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, a national holiday for the observance of Eidul Adha (Eid’l Adha) with a movable date.

Following the 145 Hijrah Islamic calendar, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos then recommended that today, June 17, 2024, be declared a national holiday in observance of Eid’l Adha with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. giving a go signal to it.

Garcia extended his greetings to the Muslim community in the city. He said the holiday is “a time of reflection, devotion and unity.”

“We remember Prophet Ibrahim and his willingness as an act of obedience to God to make the ultimate sacrifice. His, is a profound story of faith that resonate. With us deeply as one community of faith, it also shows us the importance of compassion, charity and community,” Garcia said in his video message.

Cebu City is a vibrant community, Garcia emphasized, and is further enriched by the cultural and religious contributions of one’s Muslim brothers and sisters.

“Your celebrations, acts of charity and community spirit add to the rich tapestry of our shared life together,” added Garcia.

Garcia also stressed that Eid’l Adha “is not only a time for Muslims to come together, but it also provides an opportunity for all of us to reflect on shared values such as empathy, generosity and mutual respect as you gather with family and friends, engage in prayer and perform acts of charity,” Garcia said.

Garcia’s cousin, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco, also shares the same thoughts underscoring that the celebration is also a time to strengthen and enrich tourism landscape, one which is inclusive.

“This sacred occasion is a time for reflection, gratitude, and unity, embodying the values of sacrifice and compassion that resonate deeply within our diverse nation,” Frasco said in a statement.

On this special day, DOT also reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive tourism industry that celebrates and respects the rich cultural heritage of the Muslim community.

“Under the visionary leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., the DOT is dedicated to enhancing Halal tourism in the Philippines, a key initiative outlined in our National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023 – 2028,” Frasco said.

The NTDP 2023 - 2028 embraces the development and promotion of Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, part of a multi-faceted tourism engagement, aiming to make the Philippines a premier destination for Muslim travelers.

“This Eid al-Adha, as we celebrate the spirit of sacrifice and devotion, let us also embrace the opportunities to strengthen our bonds as a nation and enrich our tourism landscape. Together, we can build a more inclusive and welcoming Philippines for all,” Frasco added.