Marcos in vin d'honneur: My duty to steer to growth felt by all

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on the Philippines' 125th Independence Day said that it was his duty to lead the country to economic growth which will be felt by common Filipinos.

In his toast during the vin d'honneur in Malacañang, Marcos said the celebration had a new meaning as the Philippines rose not from political oppression but from the "scarring" effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Today’s celebration has taken a whole new different meaning, as we mark this occasion with renewed hopes and spirited resolve to rise anew as a nation, not from political oppression but from economic scarring engendered by the crippling and lingering effect of the pandemic,” Marcos said.

“That is why, as a way to honor our forebears, it is my duty as President to keep this house in order, and steer the country to a high-growth path whose effect will be felt by each and every ordinary Juan dela Cruz,” he added.

The Philippines marked its 125th Independence Day on Monday, June 12.

The vin d’honneur is an official reception hosted by the President of the Philippines in Malacañang, traditionally held on New Year’s Day and on Philippine Independence Day.

“It is our shared responsibility to foster a society that upholds democracy, social justice, and inclusivity, so that every Filipino can flourish and contribute to our nation’s growth,” Marcos said.

“From where our country stands now, we recognize that challenges will continue to test our mettle as a nation, but with unity and solidarity of the Filipino people, we can endure even another 125 years with our heads held high," he added.

Marcos said he was hoping the country could continue strengthening its ties with the members of the diplomatic community, as he called for ways “to take our relations to new heights.”

He called on government officials and the private sector to continue drawing inspiration from the courage and determination of our ancestors as they work to improve the living conditions of the Filipino people. —NB, GMA Integrated News