Have compassion, empathy, generosity like Virgin Mary – VP Duterte

Vice President Sara Duterte — FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte urged Filipinos to embody compassion, empathy, and generosity on Sunday, Catholics commemorated the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

In her video message, Duterte highlighted the virtues the Blessed Virgin Mary exemplified, urging the faithful to draw inspiration from her resilience and steadfast love during hardship.

“The enduring faith and steadfast joy exemplified by the Blessed Virgin Mary demonstrates an example of unwavering love that remains dauntless in the face of challenges and tribulations,” Duterte said.

READ: Immaculate Conception: What is it and why is it important for Filipinos 

She encouraged Filipinos to embrace Mary’s virtues by helping the less fortunate and showing mercy to those facing injustices.

“May the solemn observance of this day invite us all to join hands in prayer as we extend a helping hand to the needy, show mercy to those who are facing injustices, and extend love and kindness to our kababayan in the underserved and unserved communities,” she added.

Duterte likewise emphasized the importance of resilience rooted in faith, urging Filipinos to remain hopeful for a brighter future despite challenges.

“Let us be guided by our resilience that is rooted in faith in every trying time as we look forward with profound hope and optimism to a better future for every Filipino,” she said.

The vice president also reminded the faithful that their efforts should be focused on pursuing higher ideals.

“Everything we do is for God, the nation, and every Filipino family,” she said in Filipino.

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a holy day of obligation for Filipino Catholics, commemorating Mary’s freedom from original sin from the moment of her conception.