PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has officially declared Tuesday, April 1, 2025, a regular holiday in the Philippines. This declaration commemorates Eid’l Fitr, the significant religious festival marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims. The proclamation aims to foster national unity and allow all Filipinos to participate in the celebrations alongside their Muslim countrymen.
The decision is rooted in Republic Act No. 9177, which amended existing legislation to establish Eid’l Fitr as a nationwide regular holiday. This underscores the government’s commitment to recognizing and respecting the diverse religious traditions within the Philippines. President Marcos’s proclamation also acknowledges a recommendation from the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, who suggested either March 31st or April 1st as suitable dates for the holiday.
Proclamation No. 839, issued on Thursday, formally announces the holiday. The President’s statement emphasizes the importance of highlighting the cultural and religious significance of Eid’l Fitr within the national consciousness. By declaring April 1st a holiday, the government aims to promote inclusivity and harmony among all Filipinos.
The declaration allows Muslim Filipinos to fully participate in the celebrations of Eid’l Fitr without the constraints of work or other obligations. This act of recognition reflects a growing understanding and appreciation for the diverse cultural and religious landscape of the nation. The holiday serves as a symbol of unity and shared national identity.
The declaration of April 1, 2025, as a regular holiday for Eid’l Fitr is a significant step in promoting religious tolerance and cultural understanding in the Philippines. It underscores the government’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the importance of religious festivals in the lives of Filipino Muslims.
metrosundaily
