Filipinos were enjoined to give understanding, respect, and love, especially to the poor and sick this Christmas.
In a video message on Tuesday, Dec. 24, Vice President Sara Duterte said more than receiving material gifts on Christmas, everyone is called to be understanding, respectful, and love giving.
"Higit sa mga materyal na bagay na ating matatanggap ngayong Pasko, tayo ay inaanyayahang magbigay ng pag-unawa, respeto, at pagmamahal sa bawat isa, lalo na sa mga mahihirap at may karamdaman (More than the material thing we receive this Christmas, we are encouraged to give understanding, respect, and love for everyone, especially the poor and the sick)," Duterte said on the eve of Christmas.
This, she said, is the true essence of Christmas. The Vice President added that it should be the practice not only during this season but every day.
"Ito ang tunay na diwa ng panahong ito. At ito ay isang paalala sa ating lahat, hindi lamang ngayong buwan ng Disyembre, kundi sa lahat ng araw (This is the real essence of this season. And this is a reminder to all of us not only this December but at all times)," Duterte said.
Duterte also encouraged every Filipino to be forgiving, generous, and loving.
The birth of Jesus is a message of forgiving through the unconditional love of the Almighty for all, the vice president said.
"Gamitin natin ang kanyang halimbawa bilang inspirasyon sa ating pakikipag kapwa, lalo't higit sa ating pamilya at mga minamahal sa buhay (Let us make his example as an inspiration in forging connections with our fellows, especially our family and loved ones)," Duterte said.