"True heroes."

This was how President Marcos described the social workers who dedicated their lives to caring for children in shelters and orphanage centers as he thanked them for making the kids feel loved.

Marcos said this after he led the distribution of gifts to children during the second nationwide "Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya" gift-giving program on Sunday, Nov. 26.

In a Facebook post, the President said the program aimed to give care and understanding to the children. He also recognized the social workers for their hard work.

"Higit sa mga laruan at kagamitan, hatid natin ang mainit na yakap, pag-aaruga at pag-unawa (More than the toys and personal items, we bring warm hugs, care, and understanding)," he said.

"Ang mga social worker na nag-aalaga sa kanilang pangangailangan ay tunay na mga bayani na nagbibigay-buhay sa diwa ng pagmamahal at pagkalinga (The social workers who take care of their needs are the true heroes who make them feel the meaning of love and care)," he added.

Over 17,000 children nationwide received gifts through the program launched by the Office of the President in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and private partners.

In the same Facebook post, the President said he was overjoyed after hearing the sound of happy children in Malacañan.

"Nakatataba ng puso ang himig ng kasiyahan ng mga batang nakasama natin sa Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya Nationwide Gift-Giving Day (My heart is full due to the sound of happiness from the kids that were with us for the program)," Marcos said.

"Sa bawat ngiti at halakhak, dama ang pagmamahal at pag-asa na bumabalot sa kanilang mga puso (With every smile and laughter, we feel the love and hope in their hearts)," he added.