On Christmas Day, Marcos urges Filipinos to live with meaning, purpose

On Christmas Day, President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. called on the public to live a life of meaning and purpose. 

Marcos said this occasion has been a crucial part of deeply-held beliefs wherein people get to experience the presence of God in its nearest and most intimate form, evoking gratitude, kindness, and happiness to one and all.

''This makes both the celebration and significance of Christmas transcend the constraints of religion, extending its invitation of joy and thanksgiving to everyone no matter their background,'' Marcos said in his Christmas message. 

''As Filipinos take this highly anticipated chance to come home, reconnect with loved ones, and relish the blessings of the past year, I call on everyone to reflect on what is truly important: living a life of meaning and purpose,'' he added.

Marcos expressed hope that the bustle and spirit of Christmas make love and peace abound in every Filipino household. 

He is also hoping that the season will instill deeper appreciation of the strength that comes from the relationship with Jesus Christ. 

''In our endeavor to build a Bagong Pilipinas, let us then emulate the light that led the wise men to meet the infant in the manger so others may see and experience the hope that the Lord Almighty freely offers to us all,'' Marcos said. 

In a separate video message, the First Family urged Filipino families to celebrate the season despite the challenges being faced by many. 

First Lady Louise ''Liza'' Araneta-Marcos urged the public to visit sceneries across the country while their sons invited people to visit churches, see the Christmas lights, and spend time with families and friends.

''Hindi naman kailangang magarbo, dahil nasaan mang sulok ng bansa, anuman ang ating kalagayan, ang Pasko sa Pilipino ay pagmamahalan at pagbibigayan. Ang Pasko sa Pilipino ay pamilya,'' Marcos said. 

(The celebration need not to be extravagant because in every corner of the country, whatever we are experiencing, the Christmas of every Filipino is all about love and giving. It's all about family.) — BM, GMA Integrated News