President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. capped the final stretch of the year by recognizing frontline public servants, advancing housing reforms, and showcasing infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving Filipinos’ lives and mobility. 

The President highlighted the central role of government workers, security forces, and service providers in sustaining governance while rolling out measures to boost morale and expand social support.

He began the workweek by thanking the staff of Malacañang Palace for what he described as their tireless and often unseen work throughout the year. 

During the week, the President turned his focus to housing, directing the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development to accelerate the construction of quality homes within walking distance of jobs, transport hubs, and essential services. 

He stressed that government housing should not only address backlogs but ensure that communities are livable and uphold the residents’ quality of life.

15 December

Hardworking Palace staff feted

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. began the workweek by thanking the Malacañang staff for their hard work, especially over the past year. He noted that doing what is right for the Filipino people is one of the rarest opportunities an administration can have.

Marcos also lauded the staff’s dedication to public service, highlighting the “above and beyond” of their work. As the Christmas break approached, the President urged the staff to “reinvigorate” for a more productive 2026.

“[Let’s] remind ourselves of the principles that we work for, remind ourselves why we do what we do, and put our heads down and continue to work,” he said.

Building quality homes

Aiming to address the housing backlog, President Marcos instructed the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to build more quality homes that are closer to workplaces, transport terminals, and other essential services.

In a meeting at Malacañang, Marcos directed the DHSUD to ensure the quality of life of people living in government housing. In addition, he ordered the department to promote flexible and affordable housing options for low and middle-income families — such as rental housing and other programs — to simplify the process of purchasing a house.

The President underscored the need for decent, affordable, and quality housing for Filipino families.

16 December

Modern airport welcomes modern-day heroes

Ninoy Aquino International Airport operator New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation showed President Marcos the improvements to the country’s main gateway a year after it assumed control of its operations.

For the President, the airport’s new look conveys modernity similar to airports in other countries. With this, Marcos said he is confident the Philippines will once again position itself as a tourism powerhouse in Asia.

Marcos noted the decongestion on the ground and air, particularly the waiting areas, the improvement of the cooling system, restrooms, baggage handling, the dining options, and the increased on-time performance of 92 percent.

The President said the airport improvements were done with overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in mind.

Balikbayan boxes released

In addition to welcoming OFWs with open arms, Marcos announced the release of more than 130 container trucks containing balikbayan boxes that were abandoned in the country’s ports.

“We will expedite their release so they (OFW families) can receive them before Christmas,” he said, assuring that the government and the private sector will continue to work together to improve services for Filipinos.

“Our OFWs, our new heroes, continue to bring honor to our country,” he noted.

17 December

‘Don’t be complacent,’ cops told

President Marcos urged the newly promoted officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to work toward improving themselves personally, professionally, and institutionally, reminding them not to be complacent while remaining fully respectful of the rights and dignity of every Filipino.

“The power you hold comes with responsibility,” he said. “The credibility of the institution and the trust of the people are at stake with your every move and decision, so it is only right that you cherish the trust bestowed on you.”

While law enforcement authorities can maintain peace in communities, the President warned them of more sophisticated and complex challenges they will face, including digital and technological threats, political noise, social divisions, and tensions.

But he assured them of the administration’s full support in facing these challenges.

Filing claims extended to 120 days

President Marcos has extended the claims-filing period for hospitals with the state insurer PhilHealth to 120 days, giving them an additional 60 days to compile and submit documentation for reimbursement.

According to CoA, 12 state-run hospitals have yet to collect billions of pesos from PhilHealth due to “persistent non-compliance.”

“All we want is for the hospitals to provide their documents on time and at the right time,” Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said in a press briefing.

DSWD expands welfare protection

The President spent time with social welfare beneficiaries at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) center in Pasay City a week before Christmas. He served meals and led in the exchange of gifts.

He also inspected the facilities at the Pag-Abot Processing Center, including the family area, male and female quarters, mess hall, wellness area, holding and processing area, multi-purpose hall, and medical room.

Since 2023, the center has served 1,772 beneficiaries; 741 individuals were also successfully reintegrated with their families. 

In addition to reuniting families, the Pasay center houses the Walang Gutom Kitchen which serves as a food bank to address food insecurity among families and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Simpler Christmas urged

Public offices across the country were urged to observe austerity this holiday season in solidarity with Filipinos who were gravely affected by the calamities that recently battered the country. 

“In light of the recent natural disasters and calamities, it is necessary to adopt austerity measures during the Christmas season to ensure greater efficiency in public spending, prevent the misuse of government resources, promote a culture of simplicity in the bureaucracy, and support the government’s efforts to prioritize essential programs and services,” Memorandum Circular 110 signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said.

Covered by the circular are national government agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations, state universities and colleges, and local government units. 

18 December

Protect sovereignty, uphold national security 

With new ranking officers in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), President Marcos urged the troops to continue fulfilling their duty to the Constitution and the Filipino people.

In his remarks, Marcos underscored the officials’ crucial role in guiding their subordinates.

“As you open another chapter, you also accept greater responsibility to lead with wisdom, restraint, and moral clarity,” the President said.

The President reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to modernizing the AFP, strengthening its readiness to respond to both traditional and emerging security challenges through training, international cooperation, and enhanced operational capability.

Emergency loans available to SSS members

This month, the Social Security System (SSS) will offer emergency loans to its members, providing immediate assistance for essential purchases.

According to the President, this is included in the state of calamity he declared in November after the onslaught of the typhoons.

Under these terms, loans will carry a low seven-percent interest rate and a six-month payment moratorium.

Marcos said this program would discourage Filipinos from going for “5-6” loan schemes, which trap them in a never-ending cycle. He also assured that the SSS is finding more ways to provide safer, fairer alternatives to microloans and emergency loans for Filipinos.

Discaya, nine others arrested

The authorities arrested 10 individuals, including contractor Sarah Discaya, in connection with the P96.5-million ghost flood control project in Davao Occidental. Charges of graft and malversation were filed against them, with no bail recommended.

Eight other DPWH officials implicated in corruption have expressed their intention to surrender, according to the President.

19 December

Palace mourns death of former DPWH exec

The untimely passing of former DPWH Undersecretary Catalina Cabral sent shockwaves across the country, as she was considered one of the figures who held the key to the anomalous flood control projects.

Cabral died in Benguet where her body was found by the Bued River.

Malacañang urged the public to allow her family and friends to mourn her death and let investigators do their job.

Cabral’s position in the DPWH centered on planning government projects, which made her knowledgeable of all the goings-on at the department.

New roads connect communities

In addition to the opening of Bucana Bridge, President Marcos ordered the opening of Coastal Bypass Road Segment B in Davao City, cutting travel time from 60 minutes to 20 minutes.

According to Malacañang, this will ease traffic congestion, providing relief to commuters and residents. The DPWH assured that the road is safe for use, citing safety measures and coordination with the local government.

Meanwhile, in Cagayan, the Piggatan detour bridge was opened to the public after 60 days of construction.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon led the opening on behalf of the President. He toured the temporary structure with Alcala Mayor Cristina Ignacio Antonio and Cagayan Governor Edgar Aglipay.

Dizon said the DPWH will implement a 24/7 traffic management scheme on the bridge, which can accommodate vehicles weighing up to 40 tons.

5-K incentive boosting productivity, morale 

President Marcos approved the Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI) for Fiscal Year 2025. This will provide incentives to qualified government employees. Dedicated public servants recognized for their professionalism will receive P5,000.

The Department of Budget and Management said the PEI covers civilian personnel in national government agencies, state universities and colleges, and government-owned or controlled corporations under the DBM.

Qualified employees of local government units, local water districts, and military and uniformed personnel are also eligible.

AFP marks 90th anniversary 

In celebrating its 90th anniversary, President Marcos lauded the Armed Forces of the Philippines and its commitment to the Constitution in keeping the republic safe, especially amid conflict.

“I honor, with deepest respect, those who have risked their lives, especially our fallen soldiers who answered the call of duty while knowing fully well the cost, so that our flag might continue to fly free,” he said.

“We remember them not only in ceremonies like this, but more importantly, in the freedoms that we all enjoy every day,” he added.

With the AFP maintaining a total force of more than 160,000 men and women in the Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force, Marcos said he was proud of the strong AFP.

Phl no terror hotspot

President Marcos rejected the portrayal of the Philippines as a training ground for terrorists, after the international media connected the Bondi Beach massacre shooters to Davao City where they had stayed in November.

“For years, we have acted decisively to dismantle terrorist networks, to secure communities, and to sustain our hard-earned peace. To dismiss these gains with unfounded speculation is not acceptable,” he said.

“Nevertheless, we remain vigilant. We will not let deceptive narratives distract us nor weaken our resolve,” he added.

Former PNP chief Torre takes MMDA reins

The President appointed former police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III the new general manager of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), replacing Procopio Lipana.

Torre is widely recognized for his operational experience, command background, and focus on law enforcement reforms and public safety.

During his tenure at the PNP, he held several key leadership positions in regional and district commands, providing extensive experience in urban security and interagency coordination. But he is more known for arresting Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and former president Rodrigo Duterte. 

Surprising guests at Kalayaan Grounds

President Marcos surprised guests at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañang on Friday, with the crowds mainly composed of overseas Filipino workers.

Accompanied by Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac, Marcos greeted OFWs who were having a fun time at the Palace grounds.

Marcos thanked the OFWs for their sacrifices for their families and the nation, and reiterated the government’s full backing for their endeavors.

Tara sa Palasyo is open to the public from 6 to 11 p.m. with Christmas treats, rides, arcade games, twinkling lights, music, and movies. A Misa de Gallo and Christmas kakanins are available starting at 4 a.m.