Eid'l Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, is a significant religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide. In the Philippines, a country with a considerable Muslim population concentrated predominantly in the Mindanao region, this day is recognized as a regular non-working holiday. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
The exact date of Eid'l Fitr varies each year as it is determined by the sighting of the new moon. The celebration involves communal prayers at dawn, giving of alms to the poor, feasting with families and friends and wearing new clothes as a symbol of renewal. In the Philippines, the Eid'l Fitr observance is not exclusively for Muslims. It is an opportunity for Filipinos of different faiths to respect and appreciate the cultural and religious diversity that exists within the country.
Community-wide celebrations in the Philippines often take the form of colorful parades, cultural performances, food festivals, and other communal activities. The government uses this occasion to promote peace and unity among Filipinos irrespective of their religion. It is a day of joy, gratitude, and reflection that highlights the rich Islamic traditions in the Philippines, as well as the country's commitment to fostering religious harmony and mutual respect among its citizens.