Press Statement of the Government of the Philippines

Press Release from the [Cabinet of the Republic of the Philippines]

The Government of the Republic of the Philippines would like to convey our solidarity with all regional and minority groups within our nation. The Philippine government prides itself on our vast ethnic population and celebrates cultural diversity within the state. In celebration of these cultures, the government has recognized new holidays on a national level.

On behalf of our Muslim minority, the Republic of the Philippines has proclaimed Lailat al Miraj a national holiday, which falls on May 13th of this year, to allow our citizens to take a leave from work and spend time with family and in worship. Lailat al Miraj is a Muslim holiday that commemorates the Prophet Muhammad's nighttime journey from Mecca to the 'Farthest Mosque' in Jerusalem where he ascended to heaven, was purified, and given the instruction for Muslims to pray five times daily. Lailat al Miraj is observed by Muslims as one of the most important events in the history of Islam. Muslims may attend special prayer services at a mosque, or they may commemorate the holiday privately at home. We ask that the citizenry respect the course of this holiday.

The Philippines also consist of a large number of indigenous and ethnic groups living in the country. Indigenous People's day is a UN sponsored holiday held on the 8th of September and already recognized by the Philippines. However, the Republic of the Philippines has instituted a new holiday in representation of the indigenous peoples of the Philippines in specific. Filipino People's day will be held on the 3rd of May and commemorate the original inhabitants of the Philippines and celebrate their rich and diverse culture. This being stated, we would like to recognize and thank the following groups: Aeta people, Ati people, B'laan people, Batak people, Ilongot people, Lumad peoples, Mangyan peoples, Palawan Tribe, Peoples of Palawan, Suludnon people, Tagbanwa people, Tasaday people, Tboli people, Tiruray people, and any other remaining and unidentified groups within the state.