PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to remain resilient and optimistic amid life’s trials, as the nation commenced its solemn observance of Holy Week.
In his Palm Sunday message, Marcos reflected on the significance of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, urging the public to draw strength and hope from the example of the Savior’s sacrifice.
“I join the entire Filipino nation as we take a brief pause from our daily routines to observe the Holy Week,” Marcos said.
“As we enter the solemn commemoration of Jesus Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection, let us ponder on the Lord’s perfect example of compassion and self-giving. Our Savior knew that the path of Calvary was not an easy journey,” he added.
“Yet, in dutiful obedience to the Father’s will. He fulfilled His mission, enduring hardships and suffering, all in the name of love. Through His sacrifice, the gift of salvation came into our midst.”
Filipinos mark Holy Week with deep devotion through church services, processions and personal acts of penance.
Marcos encouraged Filipinos to remain steadfast despite adversity, drawing parallels to Christ’s perseverance.
“Like Christ, may we remain resilient and optimistic in life, despite all the challenges that come our way. May all the adversities that we face shape us into better persons, capable of understanding and charity towards our brethren,” he said.
“By His death on the cross at Golgotha, He showed us that our limitations and frailties as human beings do not hinder us for greater causes.”
He further highlighted Easter’s message of hope and spiritual renewal.
“We are comforted by the triumph of Easter, which uncovered the success of the Lord’s ultimate sacrifice. May the realization that a loving God embraced humanity to be with us inspire perseverance through tribulations and be an encouragement to our brothers and sisters,” the President said.
“I hope that we will regain strength in the presence of our family and loved ones for us to be more dedicated to doing His will, most especially to those in the peripheries He entrusted under our care,” he added. (PNA)
