President Marcos Asks Government Agencies to Avoid Lavish Christmas Parties This Holiday Season
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wants all government agencies to avoid lavish Christmas parties this holiday season.
BBM’s call for modesty comes after recent challenges faced by the country, with six typhoons hitting within just a month, leaving countless Filipinos mourning loved ones, dealing with destroyed properties, and facing lost livelihoods.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin shared this directive, emphasizing that a formal guideline isn’t necessary, as the government trusts agencies to be mindful and spend wisely during their celebrations.
In line with the request of President Marcos, Bersamin encouraged government offices to redirect any savings from their pared-down festivities to support communities severely affected by the recent typhoons.
“Alinsunod sa panawagan ng ating Pangulo, hinihikayat namin ang lahat ng ahensiya ng pamahalaan na iwasan ang mga marangyang pagdiriwang ngayong Pasko,” Bersamin said.
The official reassured that the government is committed to helping those affected by the storms feel the Christmas spirit. Plans include providing relief goods, repairing damaged structures, and restoring livelihoods to bring early holiday cheer to affected families.
Despite the simplicity of celebrations, the government plans to keep the essence of Christmas alive by showing compassion and sharing blessings. The goal is to bring hope and positivity, even in difficult times, and ensure that those affected by calamities are not left out of the season’s festivities.
“The true spirit of Christmas implores us to celebrate with compassion, to share our blessings, and to spread cheer. As a people united by love for our fellow men, we can cast away bleakness as we celebrate in this season of joy,” he added.
The government’s message points out that Christmas should be a time to share, to extend compassion, and to celebrate with those in need.
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