MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio on Monday urged Filipinos to embrace sacrifice, compassion, and national unity during Holy Week, linking the solemn observance to both personal reflection and ongoing global and national challenges.
In his Holy Week message, Marcos called on the faithful to pause and reflect on the deeper meaning of Christ’s suffering and resurrection as a guide for everyday life and nation-building.
“I am one with the entire Filipino people as we take a moment for a brief pause, rest, and reflection during this Holy Week,” he said.
He emphasized that the season commemorates the “immeasurable love of Jesus Christ who offered His life in perfect obedience to the will of the Father.”
“From His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, to the suffering of the Cross at Calvary, and finally to the glory of His Resurrection, we witness a love so powerful that it embraces human suffering and conquers even death,” he stated.
The president underscored that Christ’s passion offers a model for leadership and daily living.
“The Passion of Christ reminds us that true greatness is not found in power, but in sacrifice; not in privilege, but in service; and not in comfort, but in the courage to carry the burdens of others,” he added.
Marcos expressed hope that Filipinos would draw inspiration from Christ’s example in facing present-day difficulties.
“May Jesus Christ’s example inspire us to face our own challenges with humility, perseverance, and hope. For in every act of compassion, every hand extended to those in need, and every sacrifice made for the good of others, we keep alive the spirit of His message,” he said.
“With Jesus Christ as our light, let us continue working together for the welfare of our families, the strength of our communities, and the realization of a more compassionate and prosperous Bagong Pilipinas,” the president concluded, as he wished the public a “meaningful and blessed Holy Week.”
Meanwhile, Duterte-Carpio highlighted the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), particularly those stationed in the Middle East amid ongoing tensions, urging prayers for their safety.
“Kinikilala natin ang sakripisyo ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang ating mga OFWs sa Middle East. Sa gitna ng kaguluhan, hinihiling natin ang kanilang kaligtasan. Sila ay mga buhay na halimbawa ng sakripisyo, at hinihiling natin ang kapayapaan sa kanilang kinalalagyan,” the Vice President said in a video message posted Monday.
She also emphasized that Holy Week is a time for deeper reflection on service and national purpose.
“Sa panahong ito ng Kwaresma, isapuso natin ang kapakanan ng ating bansa. Idalangin natin ang isang lipunang pinatatakbo ng katotohanan, katarungan, at tapat na malasakit,” Duterte-Carpio said.
“Nawa’y magsilbing inspirasyon ang aral ng sakripisyo ni Hesus upang tayo ay magkaisa para sa isang matatag at maunlad na Pilipinas,” she added.
Both leaders underscored faith, compassion, and unity as central themes as the predominantly Christian nation marks one of the most significant observances in the religious calendar./PN
