Malacañan Palace as seen from across the Pasig River (Photo from malacanang.gov.ph)
MANILA, Philippines — Malacañan Palace on Christmas Eve called on Filipinos to “set aside practices that destroy the dignity of the country” as the New Year approaches.
In a statement issued on Monday, presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the entire government joined the President in his Christmas message to embrace Filipinos with compassion, kindness and reconciliation.
“The Philippines has long been divided by poisonous, nay, murderous politics that festered decades of indifference, neglect and corruption,” Panelo said.
“As the New Year ushers in, it is high time that we set aside practices that destroy the dignity of the country and collectively act as one people and one nation towards peace and progress,” he added.
He urged Filipinos to “think and care for our fellowmen and usher in a new era of hope, peace and development.”
“Let us remember that we are all parts of one whole, the injury to one limb affects the entire body,” he said. “Ang sakit ng kalingkingan ay dama ng buong katawan.”
“The Palace once again wishes everyone a joyous and meaningful Christmas with family, friends and loved ones and a peaceful and prosperous New Year,” he added. /atm