By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
Recognizing the plight of Filipinos who have been affected by successive natural disasters across the archipelago, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed all government agencies to keep their Yuletide season revelries modest and meaningful.
At the Malacañang press briefing on Wednesday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reiterated Marcos Jr.’s reminder in light of the storms, earthquakes, and volcanic activities that happened throughout the year.
Usec. Castro reminded government officials, “Paalala sa mga kawani ng gobyerno, mahalaga ang pagdiriwang ng Pasko na may pag-aalala sa kapwa nating patuloy na bumabangon at nagsisimulang muli mula sa maraming kalamidad na tumama sa bansa.”
Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, moreover, expressed support for the President’s directive of hosting simple Christmas celebrations, adding that responsible spending of public funds during these activities should likewise remain a top priority.
Secretary Pangandaman said in a statement, “While celebrating milestones and camaraderie is important, let us not forget that many of our kababayans continue to struggle, especially those who are hit by recent calamities. The President wants us to be sensitive to their situation. The best way to celebrate is to give back.”
She also encouraged government firms to consider hosting alternative activities, such as outreach programs, volunteer work, or gift-giving programs—ensuring that year-end activities place inclusivity at its core and remain sensitive to the challenges faced by disaster-affected families.
To ensure responsible spending, the DBM issued a Circular Letter reiterating that all government entities—including GOCCs, GFIs, SUCs, and LGUs—must strictly observe existing rules on the judicious use of public funds during Christmas and New Year activities.
The reminder cites Executive Order No. 292, Republic Act No. 6713, and COA Circular No. 2012-003, which prohibit irregular, unnecessary, and extravagant expenses, such as luxury venue rentals, liquor purchases, or lavish parties funded by public money.
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