Duterte urges ‘national unity’ as he greets Muslim Filipinos for Eid’l Fitr

President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday called on Muslim Filipinos to work towards “national unity” as they mark the celebration of Eid’l Fitr.

“On this special day, remember to thank Allah for bestowing upon you the resolve, courage and fortitude to obey His commandments during the blessed month of Ramadhan,” the President said in his message for the occasion.

He also said: “May this renewed sense of spiritual accomplishment give you the strength and courage to cultivate our communities.”

“In times when all odds seem stacked against us, it is our willpower and faith that will always see us through. Let us channel our energies towards fostering national unity—because dedicating our lives to the betterment of humanity is the best way to demonstrate our devotion to God,” he said.

“Together, let us work towards building a society that is grounded on love, mutual respect and understanding. May this special day bring happiness, peace and prosperity to everyone. Eid Mubarak!” he added.

This year’s celebration of Eid’l Fitr comes amid the ongoing clashes between government troops and the Maute local terror group in Marawi City, which led to Duterte’s imposition of martial law in the whole of Mindanao.

The skirmishes, which is now on its fifth week, , has displaced 382,985, or 78,293 families, latest data from the Department of Social Welfare and Development shows.

Of these, 15,994 or 3,463 families are currently in 75 evacuation centers near the city, while majority of the evacuees—341,270 persons, or 69,792 families—are living with relatives or friends.

Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao because of the conflict in the city. —Rose-An Jessica Dioquino/ALG, GMA News