Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero joined the Filipino Muslim community in celebrating Eid al-Fitr, highlighting the values of gratitude, unity, and compassion as guiding principles for all Filipinos — regardless of faith.
"Ako po ay kaisa ng ating mga kababayang Muslim sa pagdiriwang ng Eid al-Fitr, isang napakamahalagang araw sa Islam na naghuhudyat sa pagtatapos ng banal na buwan ng Ramadan," Escudero said.
(I join our Muslim countrymen in celebrating Eid al-Fitr, a very important day in Islam that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.)
"Ang Eid al-Fitr ay isang panahon ng pasasalamat, pagkakaisa, at pagbabahagi ng biyaya sa kapwa. Ito ay mga katuruan na angkop para sa lahat, anuman ang ating relihiyon o pananampalataya," he added.
(Eid al-Fitr is a time for gratitude, unity, and sharing blessings with others. These are teachings that are meaningful for everyone, regardless of religion or belief.)
Escudero expressed hope that the holiday would inspire harmony, especially during politically divisive times, and serve as a reminder of the strength found in compassion and understanding.
"Kasabay ng pasasalamat, dalangin ko na ang araw na ito ay magbigay-daan para sa pagkakaisa at kapayapaan ng ating bansa. Sa kabila ng pagkakawatak-watak sanhi ng mga kaganapang pampulitika, nananatili ang ating pag-asa na ang Eid al-Fitr ay magsisilbing inspirasyon para sa pagkakasundo at pagkakaunawaan ng bawat Pilipino," he said.
(Along with our gratitude, I pray that this day paves the way for unity and peace in our nation. Despite political divisions, we remain hopeful that Eid al-Fitr will inspire reconciliation and understanding among all Filipinos.)
He praised the Muslim community for their steadfast devotion and sacrifice during Ramadan, calling it a source of reflection for the nation.
"Ang inyong pananampalataya at sakripisyo sa panahon ng Ramadan ay paalala sa ating lahat ng kahalagahan ng pagtitiis, pagmamalasakit, at pagmamahal sa kapwa. Ipagpatuloy natin ang diwa ng Eid al-Fitr sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay. Bilang isang bayan, tayo ay magkaisa para sa isang mas maayos na kinabukasan," Escudero said.
(Your faith and sacrifice during Ramadan remind us all of the importance of endurance, compassion, and love for others. Let us carry the spirit of Eid al-Fitr into our daily lives. As one nation, let us unite for a better future.)
He concluded his message by wishing all Muslim Filipinos a meaningful and peaceful celebration.
"Muli, isang mapayapa at makabuluhang Eid al-Fitr sa inyong lahat. Eid Mubarak!"
(Once again, a peaceful and meaningful Eid al-Fitr to you all. Eid Mubarak!)