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| President Rodrigo Duterte in his Christmas message to every Filipinos. (Photo from Inquirer) |
[Asia News Communication = Reporter Reakkana] MANILA — Amid the coronavirus pandemic that has killed millions across the world, President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday called on Filipinos to show their “invincible spirit” and help those who were in need. “This year has been a trying time for all of us. Many lives were lost and forever changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and several natural calamities. But through it all, we continue to survive and rise because of our unity, strength, and invincible spirit of Filipinos,” Duterte said in his recorded Christmas message.
Vice President Leni Robredo also urged the people to remain steadfast in the face of adversity. “This Christmas is like no other,” Robredo said. “There are no Christmas parties and caroling, no large dinners, and celebrations are far from one another. But in spite of these changes, we draw strength from things that are certain: the goodness of others and (the) encompassing love of our Lord.”
Stressing that Christmas is a time of hope and sharing, Duterte said: “[L]et the story of Jesus Christ’s birth reminds us that we should always have hope even in darkness, poverty, and suffering. Let us also allow Christ into our lives so that we could bring love and cheer not only to our families and friends but also to those who are most in need,”
