Duterte Says Eid'l Adha a Reminder that Change Requires Sacrifice

Manila, Philippines, 10 Dzulhijjah 1437/11 September 2016 (MINA) — President Rodrigo Duterte called on Muslims to set aside personal interests for the common good and thanked them for supporting the peace process.

In his first message for the Muslim holiday Eid’l Adha as president, Duterte stressed that Filipinos must unite to achieve progress, prosperity and harmony for all.

“Let this celebration stand as a reminder that real change requires the sacrifice of our personal interest in favor of the common good of our citizens,” The Star quoted Duterte as saying.

“I deeply appreciate you support to this government and its programs on the ongoing peace process, especially in our efforts to realize equitable and sustainable development in Mindanao. It is my dream to see our people, regardless of beliefs, join hands in building a united country for our children and the next generation,” he added.

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Duterte said the occasion serves as a reminder of virtues that strengthen the very foundation of Islam and “invigorates common aspirations.”

Eid’l Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to Allah, the Arabic word for God. (T/R07/R01)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)