CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY(March 17) — The scent of freshly baked sweets, the laughter of children running to greet relatives, and the soft hum of prayers in the early morning — for many Muslim families in the Philippines, this is the atmosphere that heralds Eid’l Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan.
This year, Malacañang has declared March 20, 2026, a regular holiday nationwide to allow all Filipinos to join in the celebrations, promoting unity and cultural understanding. The proclamation, signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, follows a recommendation by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) and aims to highlight the festival’s religious and cultural significance.
For the Ali family in Cagayan de Oro, the days leading to Eid are a mix of reflection, preparation, and excitement. “During Ramadan, we focus on prayer, charity, and self-discipline,” said Fatima Ali, a teacher and mother of three. “Now, as Eid approaches, the whole family comes together to clean the house, prepare traditional dishes, and get ready to welcome relatives and friends.”
Eid’l Fitr is celebrated for three days, starting with the communal Salat al-Eid or Eid prayers, often held in open fields or mosques. Families then gather for festive meals, featuring dishes like biryani, kebabs, and sweet pastries, while children receive “Eidi” — gifts or money symbolizing blessings and generosity.
In the nearby Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), communities are busy organizing local events. Neighborhoods host charity drives, distributing food and essentials to less fortunate families, embodying the festival’s spirit of compassion and solidarity.
The festival also provides a rare opportunity for non-Muslim neighbors to join in. Schools and local government units in Muslim-majority towns often invite all residents to experience the prayers, meals, and cultural programs, fostering a sense of shared celebration and understanding.
“This holiday reminds us that Eid is not only about fasting and feasting,” said Imam Abdul Rahman of Darul Ifta. “It’s about unity, peace, and giving back to the community. It’s a celebration for the whole nation.”
With the March 20 holiday, Filipinos across the country — whether Muslim or not — are encouraged to learn about the customs, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and join in acts of generosity, making Eid’l Fitr a truly nationwide celebration of faith, family, and community.
