13 July 2016 - The Embassy of the Philippines in Ankara celebrated Eid El-Fitr (Hariraya Puasa) for the first time in Turkey with the Muslim Filipino Community in Ankara, including academic scholars, on July 05. This was done in solidarity with the rest of the Philippines which celebrates Eid El-Fitr.

In the Philippines, Eid El-Fitr, is known to the Christian majority and other non-Muslims as "Wakás ng Ramadán" ("End of Ramadan"). The Government established it as a regular holidayby virtue of Republic Act No. 9177 and Presidential Proclamation No. 1083, signed into law on 13 November 2002 – the only Christian-majority country that has done so. The law was enacted to show respect to the  Muslim Filipino community and to promote peace and harmony among major religions in the country.

The first national commemoration of Eid El-Fitr was on 6 December 2002, marked by prayers and feasting. Filipino Muslims attend grand congregations at the Manila Golden Mosque and the Quirino Grandstand or Rızal Parkevery Eid El-Fitr, while Muslim-majority communities in Mindanao stage large public celebrations.

The Embassy showcased typical dishes served in the Philippines during Hariraya Puasa such asBeef Randang, Manok a Piaparan/Pindialokan, Bakas (Fish in dessicated coconut), Shrimps in coconut milk and Turmeric ricefollowed byDodolandWatermelon for dessert.

The project officer for the activity is Mrs. Nadj Mangondaya, ably assisted by the members of the DFA Ladies Foundation (DFALF). END