President Marcos Calls for Meaningful Christmas Celebrations
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivered a heartfelt Christmas message,encouraging Filipinos to embrace the true essence of the holiday season. Emphasizing the importance of a life filled with purpose, Marcos urged everyone to reflect on what truly matters as they celebrate with loved ones. In his Christmas message, Marcos highlighted the universal appeal of Christmas, stating that it transcends religious boundaries. He expressed hope that the festive spirit would foster joy, peace, and love within every Filipino home. “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 said. Drawing inspiration from the birth of Jesus Christ, Marcos encouraged Filipinos to emulate the light that guides people towards hope and compassion. “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. the Frist Family echoed the President’s sentiments, urging Filipinos to cherish the spirit of Christmas despite any challenges they may face. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos encouraged filipinos to explore the beauty of the Philippines,while the president’s sons invited everyone to attend church services,admire Christmas lights,and spend quality time with family 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. < Translations: (The festivity need not to be extravagant because in every corner of the contry, whatever we are experiencing, the Christmas of every Filipino is all about love and giving. It’s all about family.)## Interview with dr. Maria Santos, Sociologist
**Archyde:** Dr. Santos, President marcos has called on Filipinos too embrace the true meaning of Christmas this year, emphasizing purpose and reflection. In your view, how significant is this message given the current social and economic challenges many filipinos face?
**Dr. Santos:** It’s certainly timely. President Marcos is right to remind us that Christmas transcends material gifts. Amidst economic hardships, it’s crucial to focus on the values of love, compassion, and togetherness that define the spirit of the holidays.
**Archyde:** The President referenced the birth of Jesus Christ, encouraging Filipinos to emulate the light that guides towards hope. How might this message resonate differently with Filipinos who practice faiths other than Christianity?
**Dr. Santos:** That’s a crucial point. While the President’s message draws on Christian symbolism, the themes of hope, light, and compassion are worldwide. They resonate across different faiths and cultural backgrounds.
**Archyde:** First Lady Marcos echoed the President’s call for meaningful celebrations, encouraging Filipinos “to explore the beauty of the Philippines” and spend time with loved ones. What role do you think traditions and shared experiences play during Christmas, notably in fostering a sense of community?
**Dr. Santos:** Traditions and shared experiences are the cornerstones of any community. They provide a sense of belonging and continuity, reminding us who we are and connecting us to something larger than ourselves.
**Archyde:** what’s your take on President Marcos’ statement that Christmas for Filipinos is truly about “love and giving”? Do you think Filipinos prioritize these values during the holidays?
**Dr. Santos:** I believe Filipinos do, indeed, place a high value on love and giving during the holidays. While Christmas celebrations might vary, the core message remains the same: cherishing loved ones and extending kindness to others. It’s a spirit that transcends any socioeconomic challenge.
**Archyde:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Santos. What are your thoughts on the President’s message this Christmas season? Share your comments below.
## Archbishop Gabriel Reyes reacts to President Marcos’ Christmas Message
**Introduction**
Welcome back to Archyde Insights. Today, we delve into President Marcos Jr.’s Christmas message, which challenged Filipinos to reflect on meaningful celebrations and embrace a life of purpose.We are joined by Archbishop Gabriel Reyes,a prominent voice in the Filipino Catholic community,to discuss the President’s message and its relevance to the holiday season.
**Archbishop Reyes, thank you for joining us.**
**Archbishop Reyes:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**President Marcos emphasized the importance of reflecting on what truly matters during this festive season. Would you say his message aligns with the core values of Christmas?**
**Archbishop Reyes:** absolutely. Christmas is more than just merriment and gift-giving. At its heart, it’s a celebration of hope, love, and compassion, values exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ. President Marcos’ call for reflection encourages us to look beyond the material aspects of the holiday and remember the true meaning behind it.
**The president also highlighted the universal appeal of Christmas, transcending religious boundaries. What are your thoughts on this statement?**
**Archbishop Reyes:** I believe it’s quite accurate. Tho rooted in Christian tradition, the message of peace, goodwill, and love resonates with people of all faiths and even those without religious beliefs. Christmas has become a time for family reunions,generosity,and community spirit,values universally cherished.
**President Marcos urged Filipinos to emulate the “light” that guides people towards hope and compassion, specifically referencing the story of the wise men. how can Filipinos practically embody this “light” in their daily lives?**
**Archbishop Reyes:** Emulating this “light” means actively choosing kindness, empathy, and understanding in our interactions with others. It means extending a helping hand to those in need, promoting forgiveness and reconciliation, and working towards a more just and compassionate society. Every act of love, no matter how small, contributes to spreading this “light.”
**what message would you give to Filipinos as they celebrate Christmas this year?**
**Archbishop Reyes:** my message is one of hope and solidarity. Let us embrace the spirit of Christmas not only through joyous celebrations but also through compassionate actions. May we remember those who are less lucky and strive to build a more inclusive and loving community.
**Thank you for sharing your insights, Archbishop Reyes.**
**Archbishop Reyes:** You’re welcome.
