Muslims in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental yesterday prayed that the Filipino people continue to be courageous amidst the calamities hitting the country, as they celebrated the feast of Eid al - Fitr that marks the end of Ramadan, Imam Omar Betita of the Al Dhikr Islamic Center in Bacolod said.

President Benigno Aquino III issued Proclamation No. 455 declaring today a regular holiday in observance of Eid'l Fitr, which is celebrated by Muslims for three days after the end of their 30 days of fasting.

Betita said the calamities like the floods and strong typhoons hitting the Philippines are sent by Allah to test the people's faith.

He said that they are also praying for continuous peace especially in Mindanao, and unity among Muslims and Christians as it is what our country needs in these trying times.

Betita added that they celebrated Eid al - Fitr yesterday with prayers and sports activities that were attended by chiefs of police in Negros Occidental.

As described in the Five Pillars of Islam, it is the duty of each Muslim to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once during their lifetime, unless they are prevented by finances or ill health, Betia said.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Teresita-Quintos Deles, called on all Filipinos yesterday to seek God's mercy and blessing by rising “above everything that separates us from peace.”

Quintos-Deles also said that Eid'l Fitr is a time of rejoicing in the fulfillment of one's spirit and a time to nurture peace as one becomes stronger and wiser at the heart of struggles, and gentler and more forgiving in the midst of conflict.

“As peace makers and peace builders, the challenges we experience do not weaken our resolve but rather build our tenacity to rise above everything that separates us from peace,” she also said. *APN

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