President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte led the nation in extending well-wishes to the Muslim community in observance of Eid’l Fitr that marked the last day of the holy month of Ramadan.

The president declared Tuesday (April 1) a special non-working holiday to allow Islamic faithful to observe its religious event even as he underscored the significance of the celebration.

In his message, Marcos said that beyond the festival’s religious significance, the true essence of Eid lies in extending hands to those in need and spreading joy within communities.

He described Eid'l Fitr as “a time of dignified worship, deep reflection, and solemn prayer.”

“In spirit, the Festival of Breaking the Fast is more than a celebration; it is a testament to our desire for shared humanity, strengthening bonds of family and friendship, as well as unity among our peers,” Marcos said.

Duterte, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. of the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) also issued statements greeting the country’s Muslim population.

In her message, Duterte stressed the importance of unity and sharing of blessing with loved ones, saying that the Festival of the Breaking the Fast is a time of “worship, sacrifice and reflection.”

“Ang mahalagang araw na ito ay hindi lamang paalala ng kabutihan ni Allah, kundi pati na rin ng mahalagang turo ng banal na Quran - ang pagkakaisa at pagbabahagi ng biyaya sa pamilya at higit sa lahat sa mga nangangailangan,” she said.

Teodoro underscored the celebration of "spiritual renewal and strength of unity”, adding that government will continue to uphaold peace and justice in the country.

"As we mark the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan, a time of deep reflection, prayer, and self-restraint, we honor the important values it teaches – faith, patience, discipline, and compassion," Teodoro said in his message

` For his part, Galvez said: ”Through your example, may you inspire others to lend a helping hand to everyone, especially those who are most in need. Let us all work together to achieve our shared vision: a just and lasting peace for the Bangsamoro people and all Filipinos.