President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for “unity” in his first Christmas message to the Filipino people as president.
“Let us believe that when we help one another, we can achieve this promise. More than that, let us open our hearts to the spirit of unity,” said the president in a message on Christmas Day.
“Let our spirits not dwell on the adornments that we display, on the buzz and activities we create, nor on the lack thereof,” he said.
“Instead, let us partake in this holiday with the same simplicity, sense, and meaning that we get from it,” added Marcos.
He said that “all the generosity and goodwill stirred in this season are welcomed.”
“Surely, embracing these will help us overcome the difficulties brought by the pandemic and other challenges,” the president said in his message.
He said that “the story of Christ’s birth” has become “an integral part” in the Filipino culture.
“We have become more accustomed to commemorating this day with gatherings, thanksgiving, and merrymaking,” noted the president.
“No matter the evolution of its observance, it is imperative that we emphasize the true essence of this holiday – love,” Marcos said.
“It is this pure and simple love that Christmas represents—the same one that we constantly desire and need – that allows it to be more than just a Christian tradition,” he added.
