President Marcos yesterday: Exemplify solidarity through kindness, volunteerism

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday called on Filipinos to display solidarity and volunteerism, and to contribute to efforts to secure a better future for the Philippines.

In his New Year message, Marcos, whose campaign during the 2022 elections centered on the call for unity, said each Filipino is a “catalyst” for the country’s “meaningful social transformation.”

“As we welcome 2024 with great optimism, I call upon every Filipino from every corner of the world to contribute to the future of our beloved motherland. Let us embody the spirit of solidarity through acts of kindness, volunteerism and compassion, knowing that each of us is a catalyst for our country’s meaningful social transformation,” the President said.

Marcos said every new beginning allows Filipinos to reflect on what they have accomplished, to move forward with the lessons they have learned, and reinforce the unity they have forged as a people.

“As a nation, we bid farewell to the challenges and triumphs of the past year and embrace a new dawn of opportunity and hope that heralds another fresh start for all,” the Chief Executive said.

“Truly, I am delighted to begin this new year with you as we strengthen our bonds and charter a new roadmap for tomorrow. Let the dream of a revitalized Philippines – a Bagong Pilipinas – guide our every endeavor as we bring forth peace, progress, and prosperity for all,” he added.

Clear vision

As Filipinos faced plenty of challenges and triumphs in 2023, Vice President Sara Duterte said her vision remains clear and rosy for the coming year, and vowed to continue rendering “sincere service” in 2024.

“2023 was a colorful year for our country and the world – so many stories of triumphs, challenges and hope. But as Filipinos, we remain strong and unshaken,” Duterte said in her New Year’s message.

“That’s why our vision for tomorrow will remain clear: We will continue to deliver sincere service,” she added.

Duterte said she and her office would push through with their agenda of delivering peace and comfort to all Filipino families.

“We will never be shaken by any challenges – a Happy New Year to all Filipinos. My hope for everyone is to gain new hope, strength and fortified determination to strive and be united for the welfare of each Filipino,” she said.

Unity and service

“As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I find myself reflecting with a heart filled with gratitude and hope on the transformative journey we, the Filipino people, have embarked upon in 2023,” Speaker Martin Romualdez said to members of Congress in his New Year’s message.

He reflected on the past year’s milestones as a testament to Congress’ “shared dedication to progress, unity, and service.”

“The achievements we have realized together are indeed remarkable. The commitment and hard work of each of you, as members of our community, have been pivotal in the passage of critical bills, measures, and resolutions addressing the varied needs of our nation,” Romualdez said.

Saying that every economic reform and social initiative has always been about improving the life of every Filipino, Romualdez goes on to thank House members for their dedication and commitment to the common good, which became a “driving force” behind 2023’s legislative wins.

“Your unwavering efforts have not only shaped policy, but also strengthened our democracy. Faced with challenges, you have stood resolute in your commitment to our country and our people,” he added.

With renewed optimism and purpose, Romualdez called on Filipinos to uphold the spirit of unity and service: “I wish every Filipino a Happy New Year. May this year bring us closer to realizing our national aspirations. Let’s continue to uphold the spirit of unity and service in the days to come. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!”

Bayanihan spirit

With the bayanihan spirit alive, Filipinos will overcome whatever challenges in 2024, Sen. Nancy Binay said.

Binay continued that with faith, prayers and collective strength, Filipinos will continue to persevere and work hard for better lives.

“As we enter the New Year, let’s face each tomorrow with hope. Armed with our faith, prayers, and our collective strengths, we will continue to persevere and work hard to recover from last year’s challenges,” she said in Filipino.

She urged Filipinos to have renewed vigor and strength to welcome the Year 2024 with a smile and a full heart.

“There will be various challenges along the way, but I am confident that as long as we keep the bayanihan spirit alive, we will overcome whatever is thrown our way,” the senator said.

“Even if the challenge continues, we will continue to rise. From our family, Happy New Year – at Mabuhay tayong lahat!” she said. — Neil Jayson Servallos, Delon Porcalla, Cecille Suerte Felipe