President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said Thursday that helping Filipinos is always the government's priority.
"Asahan nyo kayo ay laging nasa isip namin. Itong mga to, DSWD, araw araw yan, 24/7, iniisip nila kung papano namin kayo tutulungan (We assure you that you're always on our minds. For 24/7, the Department of Social Welfare and Development has been thinking of how they can help you)," he said.
"Kung papano pa ang aming pwedeng gawin para nga kahit papano kahit nakalampas na yung pasko, 'yung New Year ay patuloy pa rin ang aming tulong sa inyo (They also think of ways to help you get through the Christmas and New Year)," he added.
The President made the pronouncement during the distribution of Christmas gifts and packages to hundred of members of indigenous people (IP) groups as well as to street children in Luneta Park in Manila.
Noting the difference of Filipino Christmas celebration from other nationalities', which Marcos said is very festive, the President came up with the gift giving, so some of his constituents can still feel the season despite the current challenges.
A same event was already conducted in Cebu City on December 21 and will be also held in Davao City on December 23, according to DSWD.
"So gumawa kami ng kunting event para kahit papano para masabi natin ay lahat ng Pilipino makaramdam ng Christmas spirit, makaramdam ng pasko at kahit papano ay makikita natin na ang kinabuksan ay magiging mas maliwanag kaysa sa pinagdaanan natin (So we made this event for you to feel the spirit of Christmas and for us to see that our future will be brighter than yesterday)," he said.
"Itong aming kunting tulong sa inyo hindi lang ngayong pasko (This is our small help for you)," he added.
Marcos then invited the public to visit Malacañang Palace as it opens for those who want to spend their free time before attending Simbang Gabi (Night Mass).