Muslims celebrate end of Ramadan with prayer for peace

As the sun rose, Muslims all over the country celebrated Eid’l Fitr on Sunday by praying for a new beginning: peace in Mindanao and clean elections in 2010. At the Luneta Park in Manila, hundreds of believers gathered for the final prayers marking the end of Ramadan. For those who successfully completed their fasting ritual, the end of the holy month signifies a stronger faith and a purer heart. Malacanang declared Monday a non-working holiday to mark the end of Ramadan. Members of the Muslim community also gathered on Sunday at Manila Golden mosque, the largest mosque in the Quiapo district. Macacna Lucman, Grand Mosque Administrator, said they prayed that the 2010 elections would lead to positive change and provide a lasting solution to the conflict in Mindanao.
In an interview with GMA News, Alim Said Acmad Basher, Chairman of the Imam Council of the Philippines said, “Ang maidudulot ng Ramadan sa mga kapwa natin Muslim sa loob nitong isang buwan ay reform. Kasi kung tutuusin talaga, ang palaging advice ng Koran ay ‘yung maging masunurin at ‘yung maging mabait sa kapwa." Muslim foreigners residing in Manila joined the local community in the celebration, sharing a meal of yellow rice and other special dishes with Filipino Muslims after the final prayers. – Jayme Brucal-Gatbonton, GMANews.TV