By Brian Campued
As the nation continues to recover from numerous calamities in 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on the people to help their fellow Filipinos who are in need this Christmas.
In his message on Thursday, the President said that the “joyful and blessed day of Christmas” is a time to honor the birth of Jesus Christ, thank the Lord Almighty for the blessings received throughout the year, as well as cherish moments with family and loved ones.
He emphasized that Christmas is also the season of giving—a time for joy, reflection, and sharing of blessings with others, especially those facing hardships in their lives.
“As we enjoy our gatherings, let us also remember those who are in most need of our compassion and generosity—the poor, sick, calamity-stricken, and marginalized. Like Jesus, who brought salvation to the world, let us share our abundance with the people around us,” he said.
“Let us bring kindness, happiness, and good cheer to everyone we meet, especially to our children, for whom these festivities are really for.”
Following the widespread devastation caused by the onslaught of Typhoon Tino in early November, Marcos issued Proclamation No. 1077, s. 2025, placing the entire nation under a State of National Calamity for one year.
This was to allow for sustained relief, recovery, and rehabilitation efforts across all affected areas to restore normalcy.
The President likewise ordered all government offices to refrain from hosting lavish holiday celebrations in solidarity with Filipinos affected by recent natural disasters.
In a vlog, the Chief Executive also called for safe and injury-free holiday celebrations—urging Filipinos to eat in moderation, drive carefully, and avoid firecrackers.
Amid the challenges faced by the nation, Marcos expressed hope that the deepest aspirations of every Filipino may be fulfilled and that love and goodwill continue to foster among families and communities.
“Let us become a source of light and goodness to our fellow Filipinos this Christmas and in the years to come,” he said.
“Sa pagsalubong natin sa Pasko at ng Bagong Taon, nawa’y lalo pa tayong mabiyaan ng magandang kalusugan, mapaligiran ng mabubuting pamilya at kaibigan, at magkaroon ng mas masaganang kabuhayan,” the President said in a video message.
-av
