COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Officials of government, the military and Moro Islamic Liberation Front issued messages of peace as thousands of Muslims flocked to different venues for congregational prayer in Cotabato City to commemorate Eid’l Adha on Friday.
Among those who wished for peace were lawyer Rasul Mitmug, chief of staff of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Cotabato Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani and the 6th Infantry Division.
Eid’l Adha honors the willingness of Ibrahim, or Abraham, to sacrifice his son Ismael in obedience to Allah’s command.
Prayers began at 6 a.m. at the grounds of the People’s Palace or city hall, the Grand Mosque, the City Central Pilot School and the Blue Mosque at the ARMM compound, among others.
Ustads Macmod Sumililao, who led the prayers at the People’s Palace, delivered a kutba or sermon that stressed faith and forgiveness.
During the holy day, families traditionally gather for kanduli or thanksgiving.