Eid al-Fitr celebrations in BARMM continue despite unfavorable weather conditions.

COTABATO CITY — Despite unfavorable weather conditions, Eid al-Fitr congregational prayers pushed through in various parts of Central Mindanao on Monday, March 31.

Eid al-Fitr, a significant Islamic holiday marking the conclusion of Ramadan, was observed as thousands of Muslims across Central Mindanao and the five provinces of the Bangsamoro region gathered in open fields for prayers. Security personnel, including soldiers, police officers, and local officials, ensured the safety of participants during the event.

Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz, head of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BAR), and Major Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, confirmed that the prayers within their respective jurisdictions were conducted peacefully.

Although heavy rains hit parts of Central Mindanao and the Bangsamoro region before the scheduled prayers, worshippers remained undeterred, with thousands still joining the religious gathering despite the light drizzles.

Gumiran and Macapaz issued official statements on Monday, conveying their Eid al-Fitr greetings to Muslim communities under their command.

The celebration also signified the beginning of Shawwal, the Islamic month that follows Ramadan. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset as a form of religious devotion and repentance.

Fasting is one of Islam's five pillars, alongside faith in Allah, performing five daily prayers facing Mecca, giving alms (zakat) to the less fortunate, and undertaking the pilgrimage (hajj) to Mecca for those who are financially able.

Members of the Darul Iftah in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) officially declared March 31 as the final day of Ramadan, following the sighting of the new moon on Sunday.

BARMM’s Darul Iftah, or "House of Opinions," is a council of Islamic scholars from across the region, including those who studied in religious institutions in the Middle East and North Africa.