Feast of Ramadhan

The Feast of Ramadhan, known internationally as Eid al-Fitr, has its origins in the Islamic tradition established by the Prophet Muhammad in 622 CE after the migration to Medina. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad and marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan. In the Philippines, Islam was introduced in the 14th century through trade routes, particularly by Muslim merchants from the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. The spread of Islam was significant in the southern islands, such as Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, where sultanates were established. The holiday was officially recognized as a legal holiday for Muslim Filipinos in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and across the country through Republic Act No. 9177 in 2002, emphasizing the cultural and religious diversity of the Philippines.

In the Philippines, the Feast of Ramadhan is celebrated with early morning prayers at mosques or open fields, known as 'Salat al-Eid', followed by a sermon (khutbah). Before the prayer, Muslims give 'Zakat al-Fitr', a mandatory charity of food or money to the poor. Families then gather for a festive meal (Hari Raya) featuring traditional dishes like beef rendang, chicken curry, and sweet treats such as 'puto' (rice cakes) and 'suman' (glutinous rice). New clothes are worn, and houses are decorated. In the BARMM and other Muslim communities, the celebration lasts up to three days, with visits to relatives and neighbors (open house), exchange of greetings like 'Eid Mubarak', and cultural performances like dances and music, reflecting the rich Filipino-Muslim heritage.

The Feast of Ramadhan is celebrated to mark the successful completion of Ramadan, a month of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion. It signifies gratitude to Allah for giving strength to fast and for the Quran's revelation. Symbolically, it emphasizes purification, charity, unity, and brotherhood among Muslims in the Philippines, reinforcing community bonds and their distinct cultural identity within the predominantly Christian nation.