Eid’l Fitr 2025: How Filipinos Celebrate the End of Ramadan
The Islamic community in the Philippines joins the rest of the world in celebrating Eid’l Fitr today, March 31, 2025, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. This special occasion, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, is a time of gratitude, unity, and generosity.
The Significance of Eid’l Fitr
Eid’l Fitr is one of the most important religious holidays for Muslims, signifying the conclusion of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. It is a day of joy and thanksgiving, as worshippers gather in mosques and open spaces to perform the Salat al-Eid (Eid prayer).
In the Philippines, where approximately 6.01 million Muslims reside—predominantly in Mindanao, Palawan, and parts of Visayas and Luzon—Eid’l Fitr is a widely recognized celebration. The government, through Proclamation No. 453, has declared the day a regular holiday, allowing Filipino Muslims to fully observe the festivities with their families and communities.
How Filipinos Celebrate Eid’l Fitr
Eid’l Fitr is marked by various traditions, all of which highlight the values of faith, charity, and togetherness:
- Eid Prayers – The day begins with a congregational prayer held in mosques, public parks, and large open fields. Imams lead prayers, followed by a sermon emphasizing gratitude and renewal of faith.
- Zakat al-Fitr (Charitable Giving) – A vital part of the celebration is giving to the less fortunate. Every Muslim, including children, is encouraged to donate food or money before the Eid prayer to help those in need.
- Festive Meals – Families prepare traditional delicacies such as pastil (rice with shredded chicken wrapped in banana leaves), tiyula itum (black soup made with beef or goat meat), rendang (spicy slow-cooked beef dish), and sweet treats like dudul and panyalam.
- Visiting Family and Friends – Just like Christmas and New Year celebrations in the country, Muslims spend the day reconnecting with loved ones, exchanging gifts, and sharing meals together.
- Community Gatherings and Cultural Events – Various regions, especially in BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), hold cultural performances, sports competitions, and community feasts to celebrate the occasion.
Regional Celebrations and Declared Holidays
Different parts of the Philippines observe Eid’l Fitr uniquely:
- BARMM, Sultan Kudarat, and selected areas in Mindanao have special non-working holidays to allow full participation in the celebrations.
- In Metro Manila, prayer gatherings are held in major mosques like the Golden Mosque in Quiapo and Blue Mosque in Taguig.
- Filipino Muslim communities in Cebu, Davao, and Zamboanga organize public events to showcase Islamic culture and traditions.
A Time for Reflection and Unity
Eid’l Fitr is more than just a festive occasion—it is a reminder of faith, compassion, and unity among Filipinos. As the nation embraces its diverse cultures and beliefs, the celebration of Eid reflects the shared values of generosity, kindness, and gratitude.
To all our Muslim brothers and sisters, Eid Mubarak! May this day bring you peace and joy.
References:
- National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) – Eid’l Fitr Announcement
- Bangsamoro Information Office – Official Holiday Declaration
- Historical Data on Muslim Population and Eid Practices in the Philippines