Aquino Extends Greetings To Muslims

MANILA, Philippines — President Benigno S. Aquino III has extended his warmest greetings to local Muslims in relation with "Maulidin Nabi" (Prophet Muhammad's birthday) Sunday, stressing the government "counts on your community to take part in building a nation of stability, prosperity, and amity."

"I extend my warmest greetings to the Muslim Filipino community on the occasion of Maulidin Nabi," Aquino said.

He reminded Muslims of the government's guiding principle -- straight and righteous path -- to attain national aspiration and reform.

"As one people, let us be galvanized by our sense of responsibility to serve the Almighty, our countrymen, and the Philippines," the Chief Executive said.

In a message through the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), the President noted the Muslims were prodded to reflect on the prophet's "exemplary qualities as a messenger of God."

The President said Muslims are still inspired by Muhammad's humility and patience, leading to a life of contentment and peace.

"His teachings also centered on brotherhood and harmony, as you live each day with your fellow Muslims, and neighbors of other faiths. May you exemplify the values and principles espoused by Muhammad, for we count on your community to take part in building a nation of stability, prosperity, and amity," Aquino said.

Scholars said if he were alive on Sunday (Feb. 5, 2012), Islam's prophet should be in his 1,442nd birth anniversary, having been born, they said, during the Hijrah calendar's 12th of Rabiul Awwal, year 570 CE.

Celebrating the prophet's birth is still a hotly debated issue among Islamic scholars, divided on the issue whether it is allowable or not.

In the Philippines, there are those who celebrate Maulidin Nabi, and there are those who forbid it.

The government, through the NCMF, headed by Secretary Bai Omera D. Dianalan Lucman, holds a simple program every year to remind Islam's local followers of the prophet's teachings, virtues, message, traditions, etc.

On Monday, Lucman will lead the observance, with Muslim religious leaders, to speak on the life and teachings of the prophet, what is called in the Holy Qur'an as "siratal mustaqim" or "straight path.”

source: mb.com.ph