Binay urges Pinoys to show compassion for others

MANILA, Philippines - On Christmas Eve, Vice President Jejomar Binay called on Filipinos to be selfless and show genuine compassion for others, especially those in need.

Binay asked for prayers for the sick, the elderly, the young, those in prison and all overseas Filipinos longing for their loved ones back home.

“The real meaning of Christmas is giving – but more than material things, what is asked of us is to give of ourselves willingly and selflessly, especially to those who are in need,” the Vice President said in his Christmas message.

“May Christmas remind us not only of hope, forgiveness and resilience, but more importantly of love, kindness and compassion,” he said.

He also asked Filipinos to pray for government leaders and the country. 

Binay also enjoined fellow workers in government to strive further to uplift the nation by bringing genuine change and lasting comfort for the people, not only this Yuletide but everyday.

“Together, let us offer the nation a government that truly works for the people, and where every rich or poor Filipino partakes the fruits of development attained through our hard work and sacrifices,” he said.

Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. enjoined Filipinos yesterday to remain optimistic about their future while working hard and counting their blessings despite the trials they face.

In his Christmas message, Belmonte said despite the challenges Filipinos have experienced during the past year “as individuals and as a nation, there are still numerous blessings, which we should be grateful for this Christmas.”

“We must inspire and encourage one another, beginning with our very own families to begin with the right mindset. This, together with a dedication towards work and unity, are the tools we must possess to achieve the full development we all seek,” Belmonte said.

“The birth of the Christ Child is the perfect occasion to take stock of these many blessings, big and small, which we have fortunately been bestowed with,” he said.

Former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said Christmas is a time for the Christian faithful to “celebrate our Lord’s mercy and compassion, embracing the trials and tribulations of our earthly life to open the door for all of us to share in His heavenly joy.”

Isabela Rep. Rodito Albano III said Christmas should be celebrated with greater hope, love and compassion “not only for our family and loved ones, but more importantly, for our fellow Filipinos who have less in life — especially those who suffered so much from the destruction wrought by recent typhoons and floods that hit the country.” – With Paolo Romero