Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulrauf Macacua helped lead the Eid’l Fit’rย worship ceremony and coming together in the spirit of unity and peace at the capitol of the autonomous region in Cotabato City. (Photo by John Unson)
COTABATO CITY, Philippines โ Communities across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) came together in a spirit of unity and gratitude on Saturday, March 21, as thousands gathered for Eidโl Fitโr prayers marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
From Cotabato City to Basilan and beyond, the celebrations were peaceful and well-organized, with local government units, security forces, and community volunteers working hand in hand to ensure safe and meaningful observances.
BARMM Chief Minister Abdulrauf Macacua shared that prayer gatherings across the regionโs provinces and cities proceeded smoothly, reflecting the strong cooperation among communities of different faiths.
โThe Bangsamoro government continues to promote religious tolerance and unity among Muslims, Christians, and indigenous peoples,โ Macacua said during prayers attended by worshippers at the regional capitol.
In Basilan, Governor Mujiv Hataman joined thousands of residents in prayer and reminded the community of the importance of reconciliation and working together to sustain peace and development.
โEid reminds us of the value of unity and cooperation in building a better future for our communities,โ Hataman said.
Leaders from the Bangsamoro Parliament, including Naguib Sinarimbo and Kadil Sinolinding Jr., also encouraged residents to continue supporting programs that promote peace, health, and sustainable development across the region.
They highlighted that the teachings of Islam encourage respect, understanding, and harmony among people of all backgroundsโvalues that remain essential in strengthening community ties.
Meanwhile, Muslimin Sema called on all sectorsโMuslim, Christian, and indigenous communities alikeโto continue working together in protecting the gains of long-standing peace agreements in Mindanao.
Security officials, including Major General Jose Vladimir Cagara and Police Regional Director Jaysen De Guzman, expressed gratitude to local residents and leaders for their cooperation, noting that all major prayer gatherings were peaceful and orderly.
At Camp Siongco in Maguindanao del Norte, Muslim soldiers and nearby residents also gathered for prayers, reflecting the shared spirit of faith and community that defines Eidโl Fitโr.
Eidโl Fitโr is one of the most important celebrations in Islam, marking the end of a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. It is also a time for forgiveness, generosity, and renewed relationships with family, neighbors, and the wider community.
As the Bangsamoro region moves forward, this yearโs Eid celebration serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together in faith, respect, and shared purpose.
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