President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on all government officials and employees to refrain from holding lavish Christmas parties this year, urging them instead to show solidarity with thousands of Filipinos affected by the recent series of typhoons.
In a statement, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said there is no need for a formal directive, as he trusts in the compassion and discretion of public servants to “unilaterally adopt austerity” in their celebrations.
“Alinsunod sa panawagan ng ating Pangulo, hinihikayat namin ang lahat ng ahensya ng pamahalaan na iwasan ang mga marangyang pagdiriwang ngayong Pasko,” Bersamin said.
He emphasized that this call is an act of empathy for “the millions of our countrymen who continue to grieve over lives, homes, and livelihoods lost during the six typhoons that pummeled us in less than a month.”
Bersamin also encouraged government agencies to redirect funds originally allocated for extravagant festivities toward helping typhoon victims.
“The true spirit of Christmas implores us to celebrate with compassion, to share our blessings, and to spread cheer,” he added. “As a people united by love for our fellowmen, we can bring light to others even amid difficult times.”
The Executive Secretary assured that the government is committed to ensuring that the Christmas spirit reaches all affected communities through continuous relief operations, infrastructure rehabilitation, and livelihood restoration.
The Philippines has recently been struck by six typhoons—Kristine, Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel, and Pepito—which left extensive damage across several regions.
President Marcos reaffirmed that the government is working double time to rebuild affected areas and deliver much-needed assistance to the victims.
