A wish for the Filipino people

A culmination of traditions, customs and norms during the holiday season has given rise to the “Christmas wish,” deeply rooted in this special occasion, particularly in a predominantly Christian country such as the Philippines.

The lengthy preparations Filipinos undertake for Christmas are unique, with the “ber” months ushering in an intensified celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Yet even amid this grand celebration, each Filipino’s vision of Christmas is grounded in one simple thing: a wish.

Despite a roller-coaster year for the country and its citizens, the nation’s top officials shared their Christmas wishes — for themselves and for others.

For the President, his Christmas wishes are simple: a proper and humane budget and time with family.

“I don’t know how specific you want to get, but I think that for Christmas, the legislature will provide us with a reasonable budget,” he said in a podcast episode with the youth earlier this month.

Last year, Marcos faced challenges over the 2025 budget due to alleged insertions, particularly in public infrastructure projects implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways.

These were uncovered amid corruption allegations that led to the flood control scandal, which the President addressed in his State of the Nation Address.

As a family man, Marcos revealed a more personal side, reflecting on his life as a member of the Marcos family and as the country’s leader, and what might have been had he lived a simpler life.

“That will make for a very nice Christmas — intangible, more time with my family,” he said.

Marcos explained that his role as President does not allow him to “chill” or “hang out,” activities he enjoyed during his youth and while living in Ilocos Norte.

“Life was simple back then. I miss that,” he said.

Rare privilege to serve

Despite yearning for simplicity, Marcos said nothing compares to the privilege of public service.

“I’m happy to be here because you are given the privilege to help, to do something, to help people’s lives. That’s the biggest privilege anyone can have. If you’re in public service, that’s golden,” he added.

Alongside the President, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos continues to lead social and humanitarian initiatives.

Despite her busy schedule, the First Lady shared a more personal Christmas wish.

In a Christmas vlog, the President and First Lady asked their three sons when they would make them grandparents.

“That’s right, Honey. Sana all. That’s my Christmas wish,” Mrs. Marcos quipped.

The President jokingly added that their sons had yet to woo anyone.

Marcos is 68 years old, while the First Lady is 66.

On the communications front, Presidential Communications Office acting Secretary Dave Gomez and Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro also shared their Christmas wishes.

Gomez said that despite a challenging year, there are reasons to remain hopeful.

“The season of hope is here. Despite a challenging year, we have every reason to be optimistic,” he told Daily Tribune.

He emphasized the birth of Christ and its meaning for humanity.

“Christ our Savior is born — He is the way, the truth, and the light. Amid the darkness in our lives, He brings a light that shines with truth and hope for all,” he said.

“Wishing you a blessed Christmas filled with peace, joy, and renewed faith,” he added.

Castro, meanwhile, shared a simple message addressing her critics.

“My Christmas wish is that there will be no more obstructionists and destabilizers, that the Philippines will be in order, and that we will help each other for our countrymen,” she said during her final regular press briefing for 2025.

Over the past year, Castro has faced criticism and misinformation while serving as Malacañang’s front-line spokesperson, often targeted by what she described as “obstructionists” and “destabilizers.”

Overall, Malacañang’s collective wish is for a fruitful and joyful holiday season — and a quiet, meaningful time with family.