As he greeted the Filipino nation with a joyful Christmas, President Rodrigo Duterte encouraged the populace to meditate on the centrality of family in celebrating the occasion. “This season, said he, “is a perfect time, not only to partake in our traditions, but also to reflect on the importance of family as the center of our celebration.” Further, he urged all compatriots of his in all faces of the globe to be an inspiration to other people by means of benevolence. “I call on every Filipino across the globe to be an inspiration to others through our small acts of benevolence,” the Chief Executive stated. Last, he asked the nation unite in celebrating Christ’s compassion in the course of striving for an improved living.
Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin Andanar, in his Christmas message to the Filipino people, exhorted them to contemplate on the insights provided by the Bible in relation to the birth of Christ. He also urged them to imitate His humility, compassion, and kindness. The PCOO chief, finally, called for the observance of the Filipino spirit of Christmas, characterized by harmony, unity, and optimism in the face of adversities.
