Duterte to Filipinos: Learn lesson from Christ’s birth

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte checks on a sleeping pediatric cancer patient during his visit to the Southern Philippines Medical Center’s Cancer Institute Children’s Unit in Davao City on December 23, 2018. TOTO LOZANO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The nation should learn lessons from the story of Christ’s birth, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Christmas Day, as he called on Filipinos to nurture compassion, kindness and reconciliation.

“As we take part in the festivities during this joyous occasion, may we also contemplate on the wealth of lessons we can learn from the narrative of the Savior’s birth to the calls of compassion, kindness and reconciliation being echoed throughout the globe,” Duterte said in his message sent to reporters.

READ: Duterte: Let compassion, kindness, reconciliation guide Filipinos

“Let these ideals and aspirations guide us as we embrace our fellowmen in the spirit of our shared humanity and welcome the coming year with much hope and optimism he added.

“Aside from commemorating the solemnity of Christ’s birth,” the President said “Christmas is a wonderful time when we Filipinos gather with our acquaintances, friends and loved ones.”

On his third Christmas as President, Duterte celebrated the holidays with his family in Davao City and by visiting young cancer patients in his hometown, a tradition he has onserved since he was a mayor.

The President gave cash, food and toys to to cancer patients at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao two days before Christmas.

READ: Duterte gives gifts to young cancer patients in Davao City

“We celebrate this tradition by exchanging gifts, enjoying feasts and holding auspicious events to partake of and share life’s many blessings,” he said.

“Truly, it is a season of joy and happiness that is enjoyed by everyone, whether they are Christians, non-Christians or non-believers alike,” he added.