By GENALYN KABILING
President Duterte is expected to lead today the celebration of Eid’l Fitr, or the end of Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, in Malacañang.
Representatives from the Muslim community and religious leaders have reportedly been invited to attend the Palace affair tonight.
Duterte, who earlier wished peace, happiness and prosperity to the Muslims celebrating Eid’l Fitr, is scheduled to deliver a speech during the celebration.
This will be the President’s latest public engagement after being out of public eye for almost a week. Duterte was last seen in public when he tried to comfort families displaced by the Marawi conflict in Iligan City last June 20.
After visiting Marawi evacuees, the commander-in-chief also sought to lift the spirits of wounded troops in Cagayan de Oro on the same day.
Amid government moves to quell a rebellion in Marawi City that has claimed hundreds loves and left thousands of families homeless, the President has called for national unity to overcome the country’s challenges.
“In times when all odds seem stacked against us, it is our willpower and faith that will always see us through,” the President said in his Eid’l Fitr message.
“Let us channel our energies to fostering national unity – because dedicating our lives to the betterment of humanity is the best way to demonstrate our devotion to God,” he added.
The President urged the nation to work towards building a society “grounded on love, mutual respect and understanding.”
Malacañang earlier issued Proclamation No. 235 declaring June 26 as a regular holiday in obversance of the end of fasting month of Ramadan.
Under Republic Act. 9177, Eid’l Fitr is recognized as a regular holiday throughout the country. The exact date of the holiday depends on the Islamic calendar or upon Islamic astronomical calculations.