PDLs observe Eid’l Fitr in BJMP facilities nationwide

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology organized religious activities across its facilities, enabling Muslim persons deprived of liberty to observe Eid’l Fitr on Monday.

“Presently, the BJMP houses 7,453 Muslim PDL across its facilities, supported by 611 Muslim personnel who help facilitate religious activities and ensure cultural sensitivity in jail management,” the bureau said in a statement.

To support their spiritual needs, the BJMP provided iftar—the evening meal that breaks the fast—throughout Ramadan. Facilities with significant Muslim populations were also equipped with mosques or designated prayer areas.

At the Manila City Jail Male Dormitory, a worship space was set up inside the facility’s mosque for around 280 Muslim PDLs. The jail allows daily prayers, religious studies, and spiritual gatherings as part of faith-based rehabilitation.

Meanwhile, 98 Muslim PDLs at the Iligan City Jail Male Dormitory observed Eid al-Fitr with Salat al-Eid (morning prayer), followed by a festive meal of fried chicken and beef rendang, donated to the facility.

At the Marawi City Jail, 157 Muslim PDLs—accounting for 99.37% of the facility’s population—celebrated Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr for the first time in their newly built facility, which offers improved spaces for prayer and communal activities.

Throughout Ramadan, the BJMP ensured that PDLs could observe Salat al-Tarawih (evening prayers) in designated areas. Even beyond the holy month, these spaces remain available for Salat al-Isha (evening prayers) and Salat al-Jumu’ah (Friday noon prayers).

The BJMP reiterated its commitment to upholding the cultural and religious rights of PDLs through inclusive programs that foster spiritual growth, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society.

Eid’l Fitr, or the Feast of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan. The date is determined by a traditional moon-sighting ceremony on the 29th night of Ramadan. If the crescent moon is seen, Eid is celebrated the next day; otherwise, fasting continues for one more day to complete 30 days.

This year’s Eid’l Fitr was officially declared for Monday, March 31, 2025, following moon sightings confirmed by the Bangsamoro Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulrauf Guialani and groups organized by the Bangsamoro Government, PAGASA, and other authorities.

In observance of the holiday, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao declared March 31 a regular non-working holiday. — DVM, GMA Integrated News