The Philippines is a wonderful country that is visited by tourists from every corner of the globe. Like any country , it has its own customs and traditions that makes it different and unique from other countries. The Philippines is cultural heritage rich , with many customs and traditions including the way Filipinos celebrate occasions and holidays.
Muslims are a minority, while Christians are the majority in The Philippines. Filipino muslims celebrate their Islamic occasions and festivals, such as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, their own way.
Muslims in the Philippines are located mainly in Mindanao, some are in Palawan, and few scattered here and there in other places. So, you can see signs of Islam in the streets only in Mindanao dense muslim areas, as Cotobato city. You can hardly recognize muslim features and foot steps in Manila, Cebu and other cities of the Philippines.
Filipino muslims mark end of Ramadan
Filipino muslims as well as other muslims around the world celebrate today Friday (15 June 2018) Eid al-Fitr. This day is the festival marking the end of Ramadan. Ramadan is of the holy month. I collected here some of the latest pictures to see how Filipino muslims are celebrating this important holiday. Eid Al Fitr is one of the two biggest festivals that Filipino muslims await every year after the month of Ramadan.
Filipino muslims feasts:
The first one is Eid al-Fitr, on the first day of the month of Shawwal and the second is Eid al-Adha in the month of Dhu al-Hijjah . It is called Eid al-Fitr as it comes after the fast of the month of Ramadan, and it is the first day that the muslims eat anytime of the day after fasting for a whole month. It is celebrated and declared holiday for three days in some countries like Arab countries, while 15 June is the only holiday in the Philippines.
After Ramadan – a month of strict fasting and pious activities – Filipino muslims enjoy Eid’l Fitr celebration, marking it as one of the most important occasions for them. According to the Islamic calendar, Eid’l Fitr falls on 15 or 16 June this year. Yesterday, It was confirmed to be on 15 June in the Philippines. President Duterte declared that date a holiday “to promote cultural understanding and integration” as per his statement.
Filipino christians share greetings with muslims
Eid al-Fitr prayer
On the first day of Eid al-Fitr in the Philippines, the Muslim community and members of the Arab communities in the Philippines go to the Eid prayer gatherings, where they find many signs inscribed with the most sincere greetings. Muslim families go with their young children to the Eid prayer. After the prayer Filipino Muslims exchange congratulations and shake hands.
One of the most popular customs of Eid al-Fitr in the Philippines, especially in areas where there is a large number of Muslims, is the gathering around food served with meat, fish and rice.
Rich Muslims distribute aid to needy and poor people in this day, which is One of the most kind way of celebrations. They donate clothes, toys, food, money and gifts especially for children.
I wish also to share extend my greetings to all Filipino Muslims and all Muslims around the world; Eid Mubarak. I wish that next year will be better for all of us.