In a festive Saturday morning, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian accompanied some 500 kids under the DSWD's protective centers to join the annual “Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya” nationwide gift-giving program at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañang Palace.

More than 3,000 children, including those under the care of various DSWD centers and nearby barangays in the National Capital Region (NCR), took part in the celebration, which featured games, shows, inflatables, kiddie entertainment booths, and a special children’s performance for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, who sponsored the annual event.

Simultaneously, the DSWD’s Field Offices across the country also held their own “Balik Sigla” gift-giving activities, while public schools under the Department of Education (DepEd) held similar Christmas programs. This brought the total number of participants to more than 19,000 children through on-site celebrations and virtual attendance via Zoom.

In his message, President Marcos Jr. emphasized the significance of providing joyful and meaningful Christmas experiences for Filipino children, especially those facing hardship.

“Ako ay nagpapasalamat na kahit mabigat ang hinaharap natin na mga hamon, kahit papaano meron tayong kaunting panahon—lalo na 'pag Pasko—na kailangan natin maalala ang ating mga hirap sa buhay at ang mga biyaya natin sa nakaraang taon,” President Marcos Jr. said.

The Chief Executive also expressed gratitude for the inspiration the children provide to public servants.

“Kaya tumitibay ang loob namin, lumalakas ang loob namin, nagiging mas masipag kami kapag nakikita namin kayo,” the President pointed out.

The “Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya” program, which started as a flagship initiative of the Marcos Jr. administration in 2022, aims to spread joy, reinforce family and community values, and remind Filipino children that the government remains steadfast in giving priority to their welfare and future. Since its inception, the program has expanded through DSWD centers and in partnership with DepEd in 2023 and 2024.