President Marcos urged the Muslim communities to have the clarity of mind and kindness to overcome trials towards achieving peace as he joins them in observance of Eid'l Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice.
In his message on June 17, Marcos said the solemn occasion offers the nation a unique opportunity to ruminate on the life and tale of Ibrahim whose steadfast faith and unconditional love for Allah have become the core virtues of Islamic teaching.
"Through our dependence on Him and our life of prayer, may we have the clarity of mind and kindness of heart to overcome the trials that prevent us from achieving true peace," he said.
The President took the occasion as a reminder to Filipinos that there is gain in surrender and the act of letting go, even of persons and things they value the most.
"As we understand the significance of this commemoration, we feel deep within ourselves that, in nurturing our relationship with others and the Almighty, we are strengthened by our past and fueled with lessons to face tomorrow with grit and resilience," Marcos said.
He prayed that "we may also have what it takes to be courageous even at the expense of our comfort and security."
"Indeed, in treading the noble yet arduous path of righteousness, we will find a greater sense of purpose in uplifting the lives of others and enriching the facets that make our dreams and endeavors meaningful," he added.
Marcos also yearned for a Bagong Pilipinas that not only knows how to work for the Filipinos’ future, “but also recognizes that they are frail and helpless without the guidance of the One from whom all wisdom and knowledge flows.”
“Let us continue to radiate goodness to those around us, confident that—with the right intention and conduct—the true, the good, and the beautiful will prosper now and in the years to come,” he added.
Eid’I Adha is a major holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide for three to four days with most of them attending the special prayers at major mosques and Islamic centers throughout the world.
It’s the second of two great Muslim festivals, the first being Eid al-Fitr.