Vice President Leni Robredo has reminded Filipinos and the Chinese community that challenges to the nation's onward progress are not overcome through disputes but through unity and camaraderie.
In her message for the Chinese New Year on Tuesday, Feb. 1, Robredo that despite the non-revelry celebration due to the threats of coronavirus pandemic, the new year symbolizes new hope and renewed chances.
She told the Chinese Filipino community that the lingering challenges in the country now are best hurdled through helping one another.
"Kahit iba pa rin ang celebration natin dahil sa patuloy na banta ng virus, hindi nagbabago ang mensaheng dala ng Bagong Taon (Despite celebrating the Chinese New Year differently due to the threats of the virus, the message the new year brings does not change)," she said.
"Na sa kabila ng anumang hamon, palaging may pag-asa, palaging puwedeng magsimulang muli (That amid the challenges, there will always be hope, we can always start anew)," she added.
"Na anumang pagsubok ang dumating, malalagpasan natin ito hindi sa pagkakanya-kanya, hindi sa pagtatalo, kundi sa pakikisalo at pakikipagkapwa (That whatever challenges come, we will overcome it neither through division, nor disagreement, but in unity and camaraderie)," the Vice President continued.
Robredo, who is running for the presidency, also thanked the Filipino-Chinese community in supporting the goal to achieve the dreams of the Filipino nation.
"I wish you all a happy, peaceful, and prosperous year ahead. Muli (Again), happy Chinese New Year!" she said.