By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday led the annual “Pamaskong Handog Mula sa Pangulo,” expressing gratitude to supporters who have stood by the Marcos family through the years.
Speaking before some 2,000 members of the Friends of Imelda Romualdez Marcos (FIRM) at the Open Air Auditorium in Rizal Park, Marcos thanked attendees for their continued loyalty and support, recalling shared experiences during past campaigns.
“Mabuti naman at kahit papaano ‘yung ating pagsasama na napakatagal na ay hindi naman napapatid at patuloy pa tayong nagkakaisa, patuloy pa tayong nagkikita,” the President said.
Marcos noted how supporters remained steadfast even during difficult campaign periods.
“Hindi umaalis hanggang tuhod na ‘yung tubig. Apat na oras nang nakabilad sa araw hindi pa rin umaalis. Iyan ang FIRM!,” he said, drawing cheers from the crowd.
The President said the gathering was a way for the First Family to personally thank supporters and share a simple Christmas celebration with them.
“Mayroon po tayong kaunting hinanda na Pamaskong Handog galing po sa amin, galing po sa First Family,” he said.
Marcos was joined by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and their children —House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro,” Joseph Simon, and William Vincent— in hosting the year-end event.
He assured supporters that they remain close to the Marcos family’s heart.
Marcos ended his speech by thanking supporters for more than a decade of continued backing.
“Hindi po kami nakakalimot. Lagi kayo ay nasa isip namin. At mas mahalaga, lagi kayo ay nasa puso namin,” he said.
