President Rodrigo Duterte has appealed to Filipinos to remain hopeful about the recovery from the effects of Typhoon Odette and the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, he said, “I joined all Christians here in the Philippines and around the world in celebrating the blessed season of Christmas.”
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“May we all be united in spreading love, compassion, and happiness to our families and friends, and even those whom we need to reach out to.”
The President added that Christmas is a time for peace.
“Let us continue to help each other to heal and rebuild our lives. This will lead us to open our hearts and our homes, especially for those who are most in need so that they, too, may have joy and hope while we all work together towards better days ahead. Isang masaya, pinagpala at makabuluhang Pasko sa ating lahat (A happy, blessed, and worthwhile Christmas to all).”