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‘The Bikeriders’ roar into theaters with a nostalgic rebellion

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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‘The Bikeriders’ roar into theaters with a nostalgic rebellion

Jeff Nichols’ long-held dream of bringing the world of 1960s motorcycle clubs to life is finally hitting the big screen with “The Bikeriders.”

The journey began over two decades ago when Nichols first delved into Danny Lyon’s iconic book, “The Bikeriders,” a gritty portrayal of the Chicago Outlaws Motorcycle Club. Envisioning a film that captured the essence of rebellion and the end of an era, Nichols faced unexpected challenges, particularly with filming the vintage motorcycles in action.

“The bikes were vintage. The actors were riding at high speeds without helmets,” Nichols recalled. Despite the risks, the authenticity was crucial. “The danger was kind of the point,” he emphasized, reflecting on the exhilaration and the safety precautions taken during production.

Starring Austin Butler, Tom Hardy, Jodie Comer, Michael Shannon, Norman Reedus, and Mike Faist, “The Bikeriders” promises a blend of coolness, pathos, and a poignant nostalgia for a fleeting moment in history.

“This film isn’t just about motorcycles and rebellion,” Nichols explained. “It’s about capturing a subculture’s romanticism while acknowledging the sadness that accompanies it.”

For Butler, who plays the enigmatic Benny, the role offered a chance to delve into a character shrouded in mystery. “Benny is this empty cup everyone wants to fill with their expectations,” Butler mused, adding his own emotive touch to the role despite initial direction to restrain his expressions.

Central to the narrative is Kathy, played by Jodie Comer, who becomes entangled with Benny and the club. “Kathy is a real person who stood out in Lyon’s accounts,” Comer noted, emphasizing her preparation to embody the character’s Chicago roots and personal magnetism.

Nichols’ decision to colorize Lyon’s black-and-white imagery and blend fact with fiction adds layers to the film’s authenticity. “It’s about capturing the essence rather than historical accuracy,” Nichols clarified, acknowledging the film’s departure from Lyon’s documentary style.

After a bumpy road to release, including a shift from Telluride to a summer debut with Focus Features, “The Bikeriders” promises audiences an immersive cinematic experience. From heart-pounding motorcycle scenes to poignant character portrayals, the film celebrates the rebellious spirit and nostalgia of a bygone era.

As Nichols summed up, “It’s about balancing the character on the page with the human who brings it to life.”

Butler (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

The Philippines’ bolder approach in the South China Sea is testing Beijing

Venus L Peñaflor
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The Philippines’ bolder approach in the South China Sea is testing Beijing

MANILA. The Philippines has embarked on a bold transparency initiative in the South China Sea, challenging Beijing’s dominance in disputed waters and escalating regional tensions, in a calculated move to assert its territorial claims.

The initiative, marked by public disclosures of Chinese actions and enhanced military alliances with Western powers, represents a significant shift in Manila’s strategy under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who took office in June 2022.

Key to this shift was a pivotal meeting in February 2023, where Philippine officials decided to release photos showing China’s use of a military-grade laser against a Philippine ship. “The public deserves to know,” emphasized Eduardo Ano, national security adviser, setting the stage for a campaign aimed at spotlighting Beijing’s aggressive tactics.

“We aim to civilianize and internationalize the dispute,” said National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya, underscoring efforts to garner international support by embedding foreign journalists on missions alongside the Philippine coast guard.

The Philippines’ assertiveness has not gone unnoticed. Analysts point to increased tensions, with incidents like ship ramming and diplomatic protests becoming more frequent. China, which claims most of the South China Sea despite an international tribunal’s 2016 ruling invalidating its claims, has warned against Manila’s actions.

Ian Storey, a security scholar at Singapore’s ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute, noted, “China faces limited escalation options without risking triggering the U.S.-Philippines mutual defense treaty.”

Manila’s strategy includes diplomatic offensives to secure international backing, while economic ties with China remain crucial. However, fears of Chinese economic coercion persist, reminiscent of past disputes that saw Philippine exports to China disrupted.

The standoff centers on strategic locations like Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal, where Philippine military presence, including the grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre, symbolizes Manila’s sovereignty claims amid Chinese attempts to blockade and harass resupply missions.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela affirmed the effectiveness of Manila’s transparency drive, highlighting continued Chinese reliance on water cannons despite escalating incidents.

“We’re watching this closely,” remarked Jose Manuel Romualdez, the Philippines’ ambassador to Washington, expressing concern over potential escalation. He stressed Manila’s desire for peaceful resolution while maintaining economic activities with China.

The Philippines’ approach has drawn attention regionally, contrasting with the caution of neighbors like Vietnam and Malaysia in their disputes with Beijing. “The Philippines has carved out a new strategy in standing up to Beijing,” noted an Asian diplomat.

China, in response, has criticized Manila’s tactics, accusing it of manipulating international opinion. Nonetheless, Beijing remains constrained by Manila’s bolstered alliances and international scrutiny.

As tensions simmer, the Philippines remains steadfast in its pursuit of sovereignty, navigating a delicate balance between assertiveness and diplomacy in one of Asia’s most contentious maritime disputes.

Putin receives lavish welcome in Pyongyang with pledges of support

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Putin receives lavish welcome in Pyongyang with pledges of support

SEOUL. Russian President Vladimir Putin received a grand reception in Pyongyang on Wednesday, marked by cheering crowds and ceremonial gestures, as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un voiced staunch support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine and pledged deeper strategic ties between their nations.

In a spectacle broadcast by Russian media, an honor guard including mounted soldiers and a throng of civilians filled Kim Il Sung square alongside the Taedong River. The scene featured children holding balloons and oversized portraits of both leaders, framed by national flags on the square’s main building.

Following this display, Kim and Putin proceeded to summit talks at the Kumsusan Palace, where Putin acknowledged North Korea’s steadfast support for Russia’s policies, particularly in the Ukrainian context. Russian state news agency RIA quoted Putin stating, “We highly appreciate your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction.”

Putin, emphasizing Moscow’s stance, reportedly mentioned, “Moscow is fighting the hegemonic, imperialist policy of the United States and its allies.”

In response, Kim emphasized the strengthening of North Korea-Russia relations, describing it as entering a phase of “new high prosperity.” He expressed full solidarity with Russia’s military operation in Ukraine, stating, “North Korea expresses full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out a special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests, as well as territorial integrity.”

Putin’s visit, his first to Pyongyang in 24 years, is poised to reshape decades of Russia-North Korea relations, coinciding with a period of international isolation for both countries.

North Korea’s state news agency KCNA underscored the significance of the visit, proclaiming, “The countries’ partnership is an engine for accelerating the building of a new multi-polar world.”

Amid Western sanctions on both nations, Russia has leveraged its relationship with North Korea strategically, while Pyongyang has sought political backing and economic assurances from Moscow. Despite concerns from the United States and its allies regarding potential military collaboration, both Russia and North Korea have denied such allegations.

Putin’s arrival was marked by a warm embrace from Kim at Pyongyang’s airport, followed by a private conversation en route to the state guest house, according to North Korean state media.

Today’s agenda includes a gala concert, state reception, and official statements to the media, signaling a reinforcement of bilateral ties and potential economic initiatives.

Ahead of his visit, Putin signaled a reevaluation of Russia’s approach to North Korea, praising Pyongyang for resisting what he termed as U.S. economic pressure and threats. He outlined plans for “developing alternative trade and mutual settlement mechanisms not controlled by the West.”

Analysts suggest Putin’s overtures could position Russia as a key economic ally for North Korea, potentially reducing Pyongyang’s incentives to engage with the United States. Rachel Minyoung Lee of the 38 North program in Washington commented, “If Pyongyang views Russia as a viable longer-term partner for improving its economy…there is even less of an incentive for it to try to improve relations with the United States.”

Putin also announced plans to sign a “comprehensive strategic partnership treaty” with North Korea, emphasizing security cooperation while assuring it would not target any other country.

As the visit progresses, global attention remains focused on the implications for regional stability and international diplomacy, amidst ongoing tensions in Ukraine and beyond.

Japan is seeing a surge in fatal bacterial infections of unknown origin, according to reports

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Japan is seeing a surge in fatal bacterial infections of unknown origin, according to reports

Rising Cases of Fatal Bacterial Infections Grip Japan Amid Pandemic-Related Concerns

Japan is facing a concerning surge in cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a potentially fatal bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. According to Japan’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases, as of June 2, 2024, the country has reported 977 cases of STSS this year, nearly triple the number reported at the same time last year.

The exact cause behind this sharp rise remains unknown, prompting speculation among experts. Professor Ken Kikuchi from Tokyo Women’s Medical University suggested a possible link to weakened immunity following the COVID-19 pandemic. “We can boost immunity if we are constantly exposed to bacteria, but that mechanism was absent during the coronavirus pandemic,” Kikuchi explained to NHK World Japan.

However, not all experts agree on this theory. Dr. Thomas Moore, a clinical professor at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, cautioned against attributing the surge solely to weakened immunity. “It’s more about how these infections spread in densely populated areas like Tokyo,” he noted in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome occurs when Group A Streptococcus bacteria invade deep tissues and the bloodstream, triggering severe symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and rapid progression to organ failure. Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, likened it to toxic shock syndrome but caused by strep instead of staph bacteria. “It can lead to sepsis and death if not treated quickly with antibiotics and fluids,” Siegel emphasized.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines that STSS, although rare, requires immediate medical attention due to its rapid onset and potential for fatal outcomes. Treatment involves intravenous antibiotics and supportive care to manage shock and prevent organ damage.

While there is no vaccine for Group A strep infections, the CDC advises preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, proper wound care, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals to reduce the risk of transmission. These precautions are crucial, especially for individuals at higher risk, including older adults and those with chronic conditions.

Higher-risk groups include older adults over 65, people with open wounds, and those with diabetes or alcohol use disorder, according to the CDC.

As Japan grapples with this alarming increase in STSS cases, health authorities emphasize the importance of early detection and swift medical intervention to mitigate the impact of this potentially deadly infection.

36 pulis sa Calabarzon kabilang ang 3 hepe, sinibak dahil sa iregularidad

Arman B. Cambe
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36 pulis sa Calabarzon kabilang ang 3 hepe, sinibak dahil sa iregularidad

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna. Tinatayang 36 na pulis sa Calabarzon, kasama ang tatlong Chief of Police, ang tinanggal sa puwesto dahil sa mga irregularidad sa kanilang tungkulin alinsunod sa polisiya ng Philippine National Police (PNP).

Pinakahuling sinibak sa puwesto si Lt. Col. Tyrone De Guzman, hepe ng San Pedro City, Laguna, na pinalitan ni Lt. Col. Jaime Pederio Jr. Nauna nang inalis sa tungkulin sina Lt. Col. Reynaldo Reyes ng Lucena City Police Station at Lt. Col. Jesus Lintag ng San Juan Police Station sa Batangas.

Ang mga nasabing opisyal ay na-relieve dahil sa doktrina ng command responsibility at kasalukuyang nahaharap sa mga kasong administratibo. Pumalit kina Reyes at Lintag sina Lt. Cols. William Angway Jr. at Rommel Sobrido bilang mga Officer-in-Charge ng kanilang mga police station.

Ayon sa record ng PNP Calabarzon, ang 36 na pulis na tinanggal ay mula sa iba’t ibang intelligence units ng rehiyon. Walo sa mga ito ay mula sa Lucena City, Quezon; walo sa Calamba City, Laguna; 12 sa Imus City, Cavite; at walo mula sa San Juan, Batangas.

Lahat ng mga naturang pulis, ayon sa Police Information Office ng Region 4A, ay inilagay sa floating status at kasalukuyang nahaharap sa mga kasong kriminal at administratibo.

Netanyahu accuses Biden of withholding weapons, US officials dispute this narrative

Venus L Peñaflor
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Netanyahu accuses Biden of withholding weapons, US officials dispute this narrative

Jerusalem. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed on Tuesday that the United States is delaying weapons deliveries, impacting Israel’s military operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. This area has become a focal point in the ongoing conflict, worsening the humanitarian crisis for Palestinians.

Netanyahu directly criticized President Joe Biden for withholding certain heavy bombs since May due to concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza. Despite these delays, the Biden administration has carefully avoided suggesting that Israeli forces have crossed a threshold that would prompt a broader ban on arms transfers.

“It’s inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel,” Netanyahu asserted in a video statement. “Give us the tools and we’ll finish the job a lot faster.”

Netanyahu further claimed that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured him during a recent visit to Israel that efforts were ongoing to resolve the delays.

However, Blinken clarified on Tuesday that the pause pertains only to the heavy bombs discussed in May. “We, as you know, are continuing to review one shipment that President Biden has talked about with regard to 2,000-pound bombs because of our concerns about their use in a densely populated area like Rafah,” Blinken said during a State Department news conference. “That remains under review. But everything else is moving as it normally would.”

The Israeli military did not provide specifics on the withheld weapons, and Netanyahu’s foreign policy adviser, Ophir Falk, directed questions to the U.S. government.

Responding to Netanyahu’s accusations, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre remarked, “We generally do not know what he’s talking about. We just don’t.” She emphasized that the U.S. is engaged in “constructive discussions” with Israel regarding the shipment of heavy bombs and that this is the only transfer currently delayed.

Amid these tensions, top Democrats in Congress recently approved a $15 billion sale of F-15 fighter jets to Israel, which had been delayed pending inquiries into Israel’s use of U.S. weapons in Gaza.

As Israel’s conflict with Hamas enters its ninth month, there is growing international criticism of U.S. support for Israel’s extensive military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in significant civilian casualties. The United Nations’ top court has warned of a “plausible risk of genocide” in Gaza, a claim Israel strongly denies, attributing civilian deaths to Hamas militants operating within civilian areas.

Netanyahu’s address, delivered in English, appears aimed at reinforcing U.S. arms support and does not necessarily indicate a shortage of weapons on the ground. “I’m not worried,” said Itamar Yaar, a former deputy head of Israel’s National Security Council. He believes Netanyahu’s message is intended to make it harder for the Biden administration to delay future arms supplies.

Aviv Bushinsky, a former adviser to Netanyahu, suggested that the prime minister’s office is setting the stage for Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s upcoming U.S. meetings, while allowing Netanyahu to take credit for any progress on the bomb shipment. The video also preludes Netanyahu’s forthcoming speech to Congress.

“It’s a very belligerent style of diplomacy, but he’s in a win-win situation,” Bushinsky observed. “He has nothing to lose at the moment — this serves him in all dimensions, internally, publicly.”

On Monday, Netanyahu disbanded his war Cabinet, consolidating his control over the conflict and reducing the likelihood of an imminent ceasefire. Critics argue that Netanyahu is prolonging the war to avoid scrutiny over the government’s actions on October 7 and to stave off new elections amid low popularity. Netanyahu, however, insists his goal is the complete dismantling of Hamas’ military and governance structures, regardless of how long it takes.

Ceasefire negotiations have repeatedly faltered, with both Israel and Hamas hesitating to fully endorse a U.S.-backed plan aimed at ending hostilities, returning hostages, and starting the reconstruction of Gaza.

The war has resulted in over 37,100 deaths in Gaza, according to the territory’s Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between combatants and civilians. The conflict has severely restricted the flow of essential supplies to Palestinians, leading to widespread hunger and suffering.

The war began following a brutal October 7 attack by Hamas militants in southern Israel, which left around 1,200 people dead and saw about 250 individuals abducted.

Chinese forces seize Philippine Navy boats in disputed shoal, injuring sailors

Venus L Peñaflor
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Chinese forces seize Philippine Navy boats in disputed shoal, injuring sailors

MANILA. Chinese forces have seized two Philippine rubber boats delivering supplies to a military outpost at Second Thomas Shoal in the disputed South China Sea, resulting in injuries to several Filipino navy personnel, according to Philippine security officials.

The confrontation on Monday, which lasted several hours, prompted the United States to reiterate its defense commitments to the Philippines, a treaty ally. The shoal, occupied by a small Philippine navy contingent aboard the grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre, has been the focal point of a longstanding territorial dispute closely monitored by China’s coast guard and navy.

The incident is feared to escalate tensions in the South China Sea, potentially drawing the U.S. and China into a larger conflict. Both nations blamed each other for the hostilities but provided limited details.

A Philippine task force overseeing territorial disputes condemned the “dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing,” which disrupted the effort to deliver food, water, and other supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre. Two security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, described how Filipino navy personnel aboard two rubber boats were met by Chinese coast guard speedboats, leading to a scuffle and collisions. Eight Filipinos were injured, with one sailor losing a thumb.

Five of the injured were rescued by a nearby Philippine coast guard patrol ship. The two rubber boats, seized and later abandoned by Chinese personnel, were recovered by the Filipino navy. The boats were emptied of their contents, including rifles.

The Chinese coast guard presented a different version, claiming the Philippines “is entirely responsible for this.” They accused a Philippine vessel of dangerously approaching a Chinese vessel despite repeated warnings, resulting in a collision. China’s Foreign Ministry described their coast guard’s actions as “professional, restrained, reasonable and lawful.”

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, in a call with Philippine counterpart Maria Theresa Lazaro, criticized China’s “dangerous actions” and reaffirmed the 1951 U.S.-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty, which obligates mutual defense in case of attacks on their forces in the South China Sea.

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. condemned China’s “dangerous and reckless behavior,” vowing that the armed forces would protect the country’s territorial integrity. “It should now be clear to the international community that China’s actions are the true obstacles to peace and stability in the South China Sea,” Teodoro said.

This latest incident follows several confrontations near Second Thomas Shoal, located less than 200 nautical miles from the Philippine coast. The BRP Sierra Madre, grounded intentionally in 1999 to assert Philippine territorial claims, remains an actively commissioned military vessel, and any attack on it could be considered an act of war by the Philippines.

China’s aggressive stance in the South China Sea has led to increasing conflicts with neighboring countries, particularly the Philippines and Vietnam. A new Chinese law effective Saturday allows its coast guard to seize foreign ships in what it claims as its territorial waters and detain foreign crews for up to 60 days. The law includes provisions for using force against foreign vessels if necessary.

Centuries-old cherries perfectly preserved unearthed at George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Centuries-old cherries perfectly preserved unearthed at George Washington’s Mount Vernon

MOUNT VERNON, Va. Dozens of bottles filled with perfectly preserved cherries and other berries from George Washington’s era have been unearthed at his Mount Vernon estate in a remarkable archaeological discovery, . This find was made during a restoration project at the historic site on the banks of the Potomac River.

Mount Vernon’s principal archaeologist, Jason Boroughs, described the discovery as nearly unprecedented. “Finding what is essentially fresh fruit, 250 years later, is pretty spectacular,” Boroughs said. “All the stars sort of have to align in the right manner for that to happen.”

The excavation revealed whole cherries and other fruits like gooseberries and currants, still intact in some bottles. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is conducting DNA testing on the fruit to confirm their identity and exploring the possibility of planting some of the 50 cherry pits recovered from the bottles. However, USDA plant geneticist Benjamin Gutierrez cautioned that the chances of growing a tree from the waterlogged pits are slim.

In addition to DNA testing, chemical tests are being conducted to determine if specific spices were used to preserve the fruits. Historical records from Mount Vernon show that George and Martha Washington were fond of cherries, particularly when mixed with brandy. Martha Washington’s recipe for a “cherry bounce” cocktail has survived, and it is known that George Washington took a canteen of cherry bounce on a trip in 1784.

These newly discovered cherries were likely intended to be eaten as fruit rather than used in cocktails, according to Boroughs. The quality of preservation highlights the high skill level of the enslaved workers who managed the plantation’s kitchen, overseen by an enslaved woman named Doll. “The enslaved folks who were taking care of the trees, picking the fruit, working in the kitchen, those would have been the folks that probably would have overseen and done this process,” Boroughs said. “It’s a highly skilled process. Otherwise, they just wouldn’t have survived this way.”

The discovery was made possible by a $40 million revitalization project at Mount Vernon, aimed to be completed by the United States’ 250th birthday in 2026. The bottles were found in six distinct storage pits uncovered from the cellar of Washington’s mansion. The dig revealed a total of 35 bottles, 29 of which were intact, containing cherries and other berries, some dating back to before 1775.

“When we do archaeology, it’s destructive,” Boroughs noted. “So unless we have a reason to disturb those resources, we tend not to. In this case, because of these needed structural repairs to the mansion, the ground was going to be disturbed. So we looked there first. We didn’t expect to find all this.”

The bottles, predating the 1775 expansion of the mansion, were found in excellent condition, with 12 holding cherries, 16 containing other berries, and one larger bottle containing a mix of cherries and other berries.

“There is a lot of information that we’re excited to get from these bottles,” Boroughs said, highlighting the ongoing analysis that promises to shed more light on the culinary practices of George Washington’s time.

Archeologist Jason Boroughs discusses artifacts found underneath George Washington’s residence in Mount Vernon, Va., Monday, June 17, 2024. Earlier this year, a few dozen 18th-century glass bottles containing fruit were unearthed in the mansion cellar of the America’s first president. AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren

Thailand set to become first southeast Asian country to recognize same-sex marriage

Venus L Peñaflor
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Thailand set to become first southeast Asian country to recognize same-sex marriage

BANGKOK. Thailand’s Senate passed a landmark marriage equality law on Tuesday, positioning the nation to become the first in Southeast Asia to officially recognize same-sex couples. The bill, supported by a significant majority of lawmakers in the upper house, marks the culmination of over two decades of advocacy by activists.

The law, awaiting royal approval, will take effect 120 days after its publication in the royal gazette, potentially allowing the first same-sex weddings to occur later this year.

“Today we celebrate another significant milestone in the journey of our Equal Marriage Bill,” Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin posted on X. “We will continue our fight for social rights for all people regardless of their status.”

LGBTQ+ advocates hailed the move as a “monumental step forward,” noting that Thailand would become the first nation in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia, following Nepal and Taiwan, to enact marriage equality legislation.

“We are very proud to make history,” said Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, a member of the parliamentary committee on same-sex marriage. “Today love triumphed over prejudice… after fighting for more than 20 years, today we can say that this country has marriage equality.”

Celebrations erupted in Thailand’s parliament, with lawmakers and activists waving rainbow flags, smiling, and raising their fists in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.

In Chiang Mai province, human rights activist Matcha Phornin, her wife Veerawan Wanna, and their adopted daughter watched the senate proceedings intently. “We have support from the parliament, from the senators who passed this law. That means we are protected by law,” Matcha said after they cheered and hugged each other when the bill passed. “And she will be legally adopted after this,” Matcha added, referring to their daughter.

Thailand, already renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture and tolerance, further showcased its progressive stance earlier this month. Thousands of revelers and activists paraded through the streets of Bangkok for Pride Month, joined by Prime Minister Srettha, who wore a rainbow shirt in celebration.

“This would underscore Thailand’s leadership in the region in promoting human rights and gender equality,” the Civil Society Commission of marriage equality, activists, and LGBTQI couples said in a statement.

The passing of this bill represents a significant advancement for LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand and sets a precedent for neighboring countries in the region.

Muslims in Asia celebrate Eid al-Adha with sacrifice and festivities

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Muslims in Asia celebrate Eid al-Adha with sacrifice and festivities

JAKARTA, Indonesia. Muslims across Asia celebrated Eid al-Adha on Monday, marking the significant Islamic festival with prayers, sacrifices, and traditional feasts, while extending their thoughts and prayers to those affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith, where he was willing to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Muslims around the world observe this day by slaughtering livestock and distributing the meat to the less fortunate. The celebration coincides with the final rites of the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

A Day of Prayers and Sacrifices

In Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, worshippers gathered in large numbers for communal prayers. Preachers urged the faithful to remember and pray for Muslims in Gaza and Rafah. “Our prayers and thoughts are with our brothers and sisters who are now suffering in Palestine,” said worshipper Adi Prasetya after prayers in southern Jakarta. Another devotee, Berlina Yustiza, prayed for strength and peace for those ravaged by war.

Cultural Traditions in Indonesia

Indonesia, home to the largest Muslim population in the world, has unique traditions for Eid al-Adha influenced by other religions. In Yogyakarta, locals believe catching crops arranged in a “gunungan” can bring good luck. In East Java’s Pasuruan city, a tradition called “manten sapi” involves dressing sacrificial cows like brides. Villagers in Demak celebrated with a procession of livestock called “apitan,” expressing gratitude for food and harvest.

Celebrations Across Asia

In Malaysia, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim joined thousands in morning prayers at a mosque near his office in Putrajaya. He emphasized the message of simplicity and humility preached in Hajj, encouraging Muslims to remain humble and avoid the temptations of worldly riches.

In India, where Muslims comprise 14% of the population, the historic Jama Masjid in New Delhi saw thousands offering prayers. Families gathered early, shared hugs and wishes, and merchants lined the streets with goats for sale.

In Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority nation of over 170 million, large congregations gathered in open fields and mosques to mark the festival. More than 400,000 devotees participated in prayers at a field in Kishoreganj district, while in the capital, Dhaka, 35,000 people joined a prominent imam at the Supreme Court grounds. Millions of cattle were slaughtered across the country in celebration.

A Unified Spirit

The festival not only highlights the spirit of sacrifice and charity but also brings communities together in prayer and celebration, reinforcing the values of empathy and compassion. As Muslims across Asia and the world celebrated Eid al-Adha, the emphasis remained on unity, peace, and the importance of supporting those in need.

Men prepare to slaughter a cow whose meat would later be distributed to the needy during the celebration of Eid al-Adha in Selayang, outskirt of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Monday, June 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)
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