Marcos to Pinoys: Remember the needy

MANILA, Philippines —  President Marcos called on Filipinos to be a “source of light and goodness” and to remember the needy as the nation celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

In his Christmas message, Marcos encouraged Filipinos to emulate Jesus, who brought salvation to the world by sharing their abundance with the people around them.

“As we enjoy our gatherings, let us also remember those who are in most need of our compassion and generosity – the poor, sick, calamity-stricken and marginalized,” the President said.

“Let us bring kindness, happiness and good cheer to everyone we meet, especially to our children for whom these festivities are really for,” he added.

Marcos noted that Christmas is the time of year when people gather to honor Christ’s birth, thank God for all graces and enjoy the company of their dearest friends, families and loved ones.

“Truly, no other occasion stirs a warmer and more festive spirit in all of us than the Filipino Christmas, which gives us countless moments to appreciate and cherish life’s many blessings,” he said.

The President expressed hope that the “deepest desires” of Filipinos would be fulfilled and that love and goodwill would continue to guide their families and communities.

“Let us become a source of light and goodness to our fellow Filipinos this Christmas and in the years to come,” Marcos said.

Christians regard the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem as an event where God became human to redeem humanity from sin.

Although Christmas is celebrated every Dec. 25, the Philippines is said to have the longest celebration of the holiday as festivities begin as early as September.

Palace officials have said that Marcos would spend the holidays working on the P6.793-trillion proposed national budget for next year.

Meanwhile, former speaker Martin Romualdez hoped that Christmas will bring unity to the Filipino people. – Jose Rodel Clapano