Philippines’ President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. speaks during a press conference during the EU-ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) summit at the European Council headquarters in Brussels on December 14, 2022. AFP FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday said he hoped the holiday season would inspire Filipinos to keep their trust in God and work together for a brighter future for all.
“This Christmas, may we encounter the true meaning of the birth of Christ, while we commemorate the peaceful and holy night of His nativity. May this lead us to trust more in the Lord,” the president said in a video message posted on his social media pages.
Marcos also said he wished that the joy and happiness of Christmas would turn into a “spring of strength for us to continue to work hard for the good of our beloved country.”
Comfortable future
He said he is also praying that his promise for a comfortable and beautiful future would give hope to each and every Filipino, adding, “Let us believe that when we help one another, we can achieve this promise. More than that, let us open our hearts to the spirit of unity.”
The president, first lady Liza Araneta, and their children also issued a separate video message greeting Filipinos here and abroad happy holidays.
“With the passing of another year, let us give thanks to all the blessings we had; the blessing of health, life and family. We will truly reach far as long as we help one another, and unite for continuing recovery and for each Filipino family,” the first family said.
Palace visitors
Meanwhile, the Office of the President, citing a report from the Presidential Security Group, said more than 21,000 people flocked to Malacañang this week to attend the Simbang Gabi and view the Palace Christmas tree and lantern displays at the Kalayaan grounds.
From Dec. 17 to Dec. 24, a total of 2,895 people attended the Simbang Gabi, while 14,988 Filipinos visited the “Pailaw sa Kalayaan” Christmas light display from Dec. 18 to Dec. 24. Some 3,200 visitors also went to the Kalayaan grounds on Christmas Day.
Mr. Marcos made a surprise visit to the grounds at the end of the Christmas Eve mass, waving to visitors enjoying the free delicacies such as puto bumbong, bibingka and hot chocolate drink.