President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. encouraged Filipino Catholics to be selfless and give without expecting anything in return as the country celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
"During period of both adversity and triumph, we humbly implore divine providence, especially as we overcome our limitations, weakness, and flaws," Marcos said in a statement.
"Like Mary, may we also strive to resign from our individualistic tendencies and aspire to generously give ourselves without expecting anything in return," Marcos added.
The President also urged Filipino faithful to trust God and one another in achieving the nation's aspiration.
"As we allow our shared experiences to shape our history and lead us in achieving our nation’s aspirations, let us place our confidence in the Almighty and put our trust in one another. In the intersection of these things, we will certainly learn where to hold on and gain greater courage," he said.
The chief executive expressed hopes that as the nation celebrates the Feast of Immaculate Conception, Filipinos could remind themselves and revisit their reason of being and search for vocation "in the spirit of unconditional obedience and abiding love."
"I trust that no matter how uncertain the days ahead remain, we will soon understand the will of God and the purpose behind the journeys that we have only walked in faith," Marcos said.
"Together, let us gracefully anticipate the promises of a brighter and more comfortable future as we work hard and pray for guidance so that we can march onwards the road of progress to ensure a better future for our families, neighbors, and all Filipinos," the president concluded.
He also wished the faithful to have a meaningful and solemn commemoration.
READ: Statement of President Marcos on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Dec. 8. @manilabulletin pic.twitter.com/t62jpjm371
— Betheena Unite (@MB_unite) December 7, 2022