AS THE country observes Eid'l Fitr or the end of the holy month of fasting, President Rodrigo Duterte expressed hope that the Muslim community will still be his administration's "partner in promoting peace and understanding among Filipinos from all walks of life."

Duterte, in his message, wished Muslim Filipinos to have an "inspiring and meaningful Eid'l Fitr."

He acknowledged that Ei'dl Fitr is "a solemn occasion that binds the Muslim community together as they mark the end of the holy month of Ramadhan."

"May all Muslim Filipinos observe this day as a time for reflection, enlightenment and renewal of commitment to a much stronger devotion to the Almighty," the President said.

"Take this as an opportunity to deepen your role as instruments of love, sacrifice, respect and selfless service and may each of you remain our government's partner in promoting peace and understanding among Filipinos from all walks of life," he added.

Eid'l Fitr is the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan when Muslims all over teh world overseve abstinence, including month-long fasting.

The Chief Executive said the nation joins the Muslim Filipinos as they "offer prayers of praise and thanksgiving, as well as demonstrate the virtues of Islamic faith in accordance with the teachings of Allah through the Quran."

Duterte is the first Philippine president who hails from Mindanao, which is dominated by the Muslim community.

Under his watch, Duterte was able to fulfill his campaign promise to create a new Bangsamoro region, known as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, to achieve peace and economic prosperity in the Muslim south. (SunStar Philippines)