Embrace season’s true meaning — Marcos

Embrace season’s true meaning — Marcos | Daily Tribune

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. called on the nation to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, urging Filipinos to live lives filled with purpose and meaning.

Marcos emphasized that Christmas holds a “crucial part” in the Filipino faith, drawing the people closer to the Lord. “To our brothers and sisters in Christian faith, this occasion is a crucial part of our deeply-held beliefs. While it heralds the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior, it also marks the moment we experience the presence of God in its nearest and most intimate form, evoking gratitude, kindness, and happiness to one and all,” he said.

He further noted that the significance of Christmas transcends religious boundaries, offering an invitation of joy and thanksgiving to all, regardless of background. “This makes both the celebration and significance of Christmas transcend the constraints of religion, extending its invitation of joy and thanksgiving to everyone no matter their background,” he added.

Marcos urged the public to emulate the light that led the three wise men to the manger, reflecting the hope that the Lord offers to all. “Let us then emulate the light that led the wise men to meet the infant in the manger so others may see and experience the hope that the Lord Almighty freely offers to us all,” he said. “I wish you all a blessed and Merry Christmas!”

On Christmas Eve, the First Family extended their warmest wishes to the Filipino public. President Marcos, in particular, called on Filipinos to celebrate Christmas regardless of the hardships many have faced in recent months.

“It doesn’t have to be fancy, because no matter where we are in the country, no matter our circumstances, Christmas for Filipinos is about love and giving. Christmas for Filipinos is about family,” he said.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos encouraged the public to visit the country’s tourist spots during the holiday season. Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Sandro Marcos invited Filipinos to explore the Christmas decorations in their municipalities and cities, celebrating the rich heritage displayed.

Meanwhile, Simon and Vincent Marcos invited the faithful to attend Mass and enjoy festive meals with their loved ones.

Earlier this month, Marcos had urged Filipinos to continue celebrating Christmas, despite the many challenges they have faced, including the six typhoons that passed through the country in less than a month. In solidarity with the victims of these calamities, he called on government offices to practice austerity by forgoing grand Christmas parties, instead focusing on supporting those in need.