Eid'l Fitr also called the Feast of Breaking the Fast, is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims all over the world that marks the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. As the date of Eid depends on the sighting of the moon, there may be variations in the exact date that is celebrated around the world. The announcing of the exact date of Eid may not happen until close to the start of Ramadan.
Originated by the Islamic Prophet Muhammad, Eidul Fitr is a cause for celebration and thanks giving to Allah. Eidul Fitr has been proclaimed a national holiday in the Philippines since 2002, and was the first predominantly Christian country to do so. This proclamation was made to foster peace and goodwill between major religions in the Philippines. On this day, it is forbidden to fast as it is a day of celebration. Filipino Muslims practice ritual washing before heading to a community gathering, usually in a mosque, and offer special prayers to Allah. On this day, they give the obligatory charity in the form of food known as “zakat al-fitr” and listen to special sermons on the occasion. After attending this gathering, many families choose to celebrate with a feast with their extended family and friends.
Most Muslim Filipinos take this opportunity to get together with family and friends to spend the day together in celebration. Muslim-owned businesses are either closed or have limited business hours. So, if you are planning to transact business on July 17-19 this year with a Filipino Muslim, then you had better make other plans.
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