(File photo screengrabbed from Pres. Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos’ Facebook live)
MANILA, Philippines — Christmas came early for the residents of Marillac Hills and Haven for Women in Muntinlupa City after they received food and other assistance from the Office of the President on Monday.
In a ceremonial gift-giving event, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the turnover of 20 sacks of 50 kilograms each of rice for Marillac Hills and 10 sacks for Haven for Women.
READ: ‘Every Filipino deserves Christmas’ – Marcos
They also received medicines, vitamins, toiletries and supplies for babies.
In his brief speech, Marcos reiterated his call for the government to ensure that Filipinos still experience a joyful Christmas despite the challenges brought by recent calamities.
“Sana naman, kahit na tinamaan tayo ng bagyo, kahit na nasunugan ang iba’t ibang mga lugar, kahit papano, tiyakin natin na lahat ng Pilipino, lalo na itong mga maliliit, itong mga bata, kahit papano makaramdam ng Pasko,” he said.
(I hope that even though we were hit by typhoons, and despite fires in various places, we can somehow ensure that all Filipinos, especially the less fortunate and the children, can still feel the spirit of Christmas.)
He also expressed his appreciation for the residents’ performances during the gift-giving event.
“Akala namin, kami’y nandito para magdala ng munting regalo para matuwa kayo. Kami naman ang pinatuwa ninyo at maraming salamat,” he also said.
(We thought we were here to bring a small gift to make you happy, but instead, you made us happy. Thank you very much!)
READ: ‘Christmas by the Lake’ opens in Taguig, now on its third year
Marillac Hills is a rehabilitation center for young women, currently assisting 148 individuals between the ages of 7 and 18.
It assists women who have been victims of abuse and exploitation or involved in legal conflicts and undergoing court procedures.
Meanwhile, the Haven for Women currently houses 97 residents aged 18 to 59.
It provides aid to victims of prostitution, illegal recruitment and abuse.